THUNDER BAY -- Municipal funding keeps the doors open at facilities like the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame.
“It’s key to our operations,” Hall of Fame executive director Diane Imrie said.
That reality makes Monday's regular scheduled council meeting at city hall an important one for Imrie. City council will vote to accept a recommendation to approve the 2013-operating budget for the Community and Cultural Funding Program.
More than $2.1 million will be allocated to a number of community organizations, including the Hall of Fame, which is expected to receive $67,000.
“It would be very challenging to operate without it,” Imrie said.
“We employ a very small staffing complement but the funding greatly helps to keep the doors open. As a non-profit organization, we’re reliant on the support of all of the governments as well as the community.
"It’s a real indication to us that city council and the citizens support our efforts to preserve the sports heritage of our community.”
Other organizations receiving funding include:
- The Thunder Bay Community Auditorium -- $685,459
- Thunder Bay Historical Museum -- $382,700
- Thunder Bay Art Gallery -- $242,734
- Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra -- $234,289
- Shelter House-- $200,000
- Magnus Theatre -- $130,732
- Regional Food Distribution Association -- $95,000
Council will also be deciding whether to move the Hall of Fame from the operating grant category to the sustaining grant.
The Hall of Fame was not able to switch over to the other category before, which administration states will help the not-for-profit organization increase programming, overall participating and diversify revenues.
Imrie said the funding goes toward their programming, educational programs, conservation of the collections and honouring local athletes.
Other items expected to be discussed at council is the proposed revised 2013 budget calendar.
The matter was pushed back after council decided that they wanted all members to attend as much of the budget process as possible.
The new proposed schedule has the long-term financial overview on Feb. 5 followed by the public pre-budget consultation meeting and then the council review and approval of rate supported budget.
Council’s review and approval of the tax-supported budget is scheduled for three days; on the Feb. 6, the Feb. 12 and Feb. 13 if they need more time.
The ratification would then take place on March 4.
