Regina city council has approved a two-year tax exemption for a couple of cash-strapped curling clubs.
At Monday night’s meeting, representatives of the Tartan and Highland curling clubs told council their financial losses total tens of thousands of dollars.
The clubs say they are receiving less revenue from bonspiels, grants and memberships. In addition, their aging rinks need upgrades.
The Regina Flying Club and the Dolphins Swim Club also made presentations to council, in which they asked for a reduction in the amount of taxes and fees they pay. However, both clubs were turned down, despite their financial hardships.
Three councilors rejected the tax break for curling clubs, and argued against it for much of the marathon session.
Also at Monday night’s meeting, council approved fee increases for outdoor athletic fields, hockey arenas, the fieldhouse, the Neil Balkwill Arts Centre and local swimming pools.
Based on a report by CTV Regina’s Dale Hunter
