COBDEN — Whitewater Streetstrut received a grant of $20,000 from the municipality as a start-up fund to cover any costs until the event is held and revenue generated.
At the committee-in-council meeting held Wednesday evening, Feb. 1, Chief Administrative Officer Robert Tremblay said to ensure the success of the event, a headliner is required and money will be required as a deposit, as well as for other start-up costs.
The committee has met twice and there’s been good headway regarding the event, which is to celebrate Canada 150, said Councillor Chris Olmstead.
With celebrations being held throughout the country in 2017,, there is plenty of competition for entertainers, he said, explaining, if a well-known entertainer can be booked, with financial help the deposit can be paid very quickly.
It’s expected there will be revenue generated from the 2,000 people expected to attend the event, he said.
Councillor Dave Mackay suggested the committee not overlook local entertainers as well, who may donate their time or not charge as much as a headliner.
Coun. Olmstead agreed, saying, the local bands will supplement whoever the headliner is. He’s hopeful the local entertainers will provide some free entertainment, as this would be a great way to showcase their talent.
Addressing the revenue, Coun. Mackay said this area is known for “having big drinkers” so it would not be unusual to sell $20,000 in liquor alone.
Councillor Cathy Regier questioned if the county will allow for drinking on the main thoroughfare in Cobden, which is where the event is scheduled to be held.
Reeve Terry Millar believes there’s a chance that something will be worked out with the county. The municipality has permission to shut down Main Street, but permission to allow alcohol has yet to be determined, he said.
Coun. Regier also questioned if the businesses along Main Street have been advised of this event.
While there has been talk of the event, committee member Doug Schultz advised a letter is being prepared to be provided to those who have businesses on Main Street and who also live on Main Street.
Mr. Schultz noted there will be opportunity for businesses on Main Street and other vendors to set up tables along Main Street during the event. It’s expected people will be able to walk around in the afternoon for free, but at a certain time, there will be a fee to be on Main Street when the evening event is happening.
Mayor Johnson said, “This is a tremendous opportunity to promote Whitewater Region.”
