Chatham-Kent will be supporting RetroFest/RM Weekend with municipal funding to the tune of $84,585.
But the money wasn't handed over willingly by all council members. The vote ended up at 13-3 in favour of approving the one-time funding that can be pulled from the municipality's Strategic Development Reserve.
Before voting on the matter, councillors received a report from administration that stated the benefits of the two-day event would far outweigh the costs. RM Auctions founder Rob Myers also made a deputation, outlining the background of how the plans came together for the festivities and wrapping up by saying, "It'll be great for kids, we're going to do some fundraising for the treatment centre... some things going on at RM... help the hospital raise some money... help the hospice raise some money... hopefully you guys [council members] will support this, fund it, and have some fun with us."
Some councillors expressed concerns that it was unfair for such a large amount of money go towards a "Chatham-centric" event when there are numerous other festivals happening in the municipality around the same time.
Councillor Carmen McGregor was one of the three council members who voted against the motion along with Councillors Aaron Hall and Steve Pinsonneault (Councillor Doug Sulman abstained, citing a conflict of interest). During her comments, McGregor called the funding approval a slippery slope.
"I wish we had the money to do this," said McGregor. "I can't, it's kind of like my children. I won't give to one child if I can't give to all. That's the same philosophy I have to live with and go back into my community with. If I can't provide this for my community and all of our communities...then I can't justify doing it for any one-offs."
However many councillors argued that the funds raised during the event will go towards three charities that benefit residents across the municipality, not just those in Chatham.
"This event is being designed very much thinking about Chatham-Kent," said Councillor Melissa Harrigan. "I recognize and appreciate that there are great festivals in communities all across Chatham-Kent that are also supporting not-for-profit organizations in those small communities. But, the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, the Chatham-Kent Children’s Treatment Centre and the Chatham-Kent Hospice are all organization that support individuals who live all across CK."
According to Amy Wilcox, Chatham-Kent manager of corporate initiatives, because RetroFest/RM Weekend is considered a fundraising event, it was ineligible to receive grant money through the municipality's Community Partnership Fund.
