Brieanna Charlebois, The Canadian Press
VANCOUVER — It is uncertain whether British Columbia will be able to host another Winter Olympics, as cities have concerns about the feasibility.
Both Whistler and Vancouver city councils are scheduled to meet to discuss the tight schedule and lack of financial details related to the Canadian Olympic Committee’s bid proposal.
According to a report released by the City Manager of Vancouver, the proposed timeline for the bid is “not feasible.”
“Staff are of the view that there is insufficient time for the required work to be carried out by staff to assess potential benefits, costs and risks to the city, and to negotiate agreements. legal requirements by the (Canadian Olympic Committee) deadline of December 2022,” the report said.
The committee disagrees. In a statement, she says there is “sufficient time for financial partners to carry out cost-benefit analyzes of the 2030 project.”
The Canadian Olympic Committee announced earlier this month that hosting costs are estimated at up to $4 billion, from a mix of public and private funds. His statement said the province did not rule out a contribution for 2030, but warned it should not be taken for granted.
Vancouver City Councilor Colleen Hardwick said she intends to bring a motion to city council that the candidacy be added to the ballot in the October municipal election.
“It is clear from the report presented to city council that we have a $4 billion Olympic bid proposal that is full of caveats, which highlights how important it is for Vancouverites to have a say.” , Ms. Hardwick said in a statement on Monday.
She pointed out that the lack of financial commitments from provincial governments and Ottawa would mean “huge obligations for taxpayers.”
“Vancouver residents are being asked to sign a very big blank check that could lead to huge tax increases, with no say in whether or not to proceed. If the 2030 bid is as impressive as its supporters say, then let it come before voters to see what they think,” Ms. Hardwick said.
Canadian Olympic Committee President Tricia Smith said in a statement that the experience gained from the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and Whistler will help provide a plan for organizers.
“We appreciate the concerns raised by Vancouver city staff, and believe the report highlights the work that now needs to be done as well as the need to work effectively together to meet national and international timelines,” she said. declared.
A report sent to Whistler City Council on Tuesday suggests the mayor write to the provincial and federal governments asking them to clarify their financial support, if the bid is successful.
Ms Smith said the support of all partners is essential to the success of the project and that the committee is pleased to have secured “five crucial approvals” so far. This includes, but is not limited to, the Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh and Musqueam First Nations.
The Lilwat Nation, which has yet to formally approve the project, is also due to discuss the offer on Tuesday.
