Council agreed at its Monday night Council meeting to abate ice rental fees for the Drumheller Dragons this coming season, and to rephase them back in over four years.
“The Dragons produce significant economic spinoffs in the community which can be conservatively estimated at a minimum of one million dollars per year,” said Sean Wallace Manager of Economic Development. “In addition, the Dragons are a non-profit entity who contribute enormously to other non-profits both through financial support and in the provision of volunteers. Losing this hockey team would be a grave loss to our community.”
This decision is a follow up from the May 11 Council Meeting when Mr. Blair Christianson presented to Council the financial stress which is being placed on the hockey team due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Mr. Christianson explained that the hockey team is predicting revenue losses of approximately $330,000 and without a fee restructure the Dragons Hockey Team would no longer be viable in the short-term.
“These adjustments to the fee structure will have a financial impact of $66,291.50 over four years. When compared to the positive economic impact brought to the community by the team, council felt it was worth making the adjustments,” added Mayor Heather Colberg. “It will ensure the community retains the Dragons and the great impact they have on the quality of life of our community.”
Here is the approved adjusted fee schedule:
2020/2021 hockey season – Financial impact: ($26,513.00)
2021/2022 hockey season – Financial impact: ($19,884.75)
2022/2023 hockey season – Financial impact: ($13,265.50)
2023/2024 hockey season – Financial impact: ($6,628.25)
2024/2025 hockey season – Financial impact: ($0.00)
