Society Asks For $100,000/yr. To Fund Operations
Camela Tang and Ian Niamath made a presentation to city council, pitching them on plans the Nanaimo Boathouse Society has for a multi story Boathouse and Paddling Centre to be built beside the Brechin boat ramp.
They presented letters showing a broad range of support from different members of the boating and paddling community who feel this facility could be an asset to the community. Their presentation did not include any credible feasibility study to support the long term viability of their venture, which does seem to have merit.
A question not addressed by city council was why they could not construct a business model which would not rely on the city taxpayer kicking in $100,000/yr for operating funds. Many similar facilities operate without city taxpayer assistance such as golf clubs, racquet clubs, curling rinks and the like.
It was also not very clear just what kind of arrangement was being made with the city for the use of the waterfront lot beside the Brechin boat ramp. Would the society lease the land from the city? Would they have a long term license of use? Where would they park their members vehicles? The boat ramp parking lot is quite often near capacity now.
In the end council voted in favour of the staff recommendation not to approve in principle the proposed Nanaimo Boathouse & Paddling Centre until Council has determined that this is a priority project.
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