A few days ago I sent an email to the mayor and council as follows:
“In listening to and reading reports and discussions regarding Mount Sima it appears that some councillors are not fully informed as to the Mount Sima issues over the past three to four years.
“It is my understanding that the city has not contributed any Whitehorse taxpayers’ money to Mount Sima other than small grants from time to time.
“The large contributions have been merely a pass-through of funds provided by other levels of government. If this is the case the councillors should be made aware of this and through them or your public relations department the public should be informed.
“If I am wrong, I would appreciate clarification, indeed, I would appreciate the actual dollars contributed by the Whitehorse tax payers.”
The most recent example of the city appearing to be doing something is the statement that the city would contribute about $200,000 to pay the debt to the providers of the summer equipment, Wild Play. But it was made public some weeks ago that the Yukon government would provide the funds.
Perhaps if the city undertook a study of staffing levels they may find a way to reduce three staff members at $60,000 a year thereby funding in large part the annual operations of Mount Sima.
I have always been of the opinion that a city not only should provide sewer and water services, road maintenance and garbage pickup but support recreational, cultural activities, musical festivals, etc. as this adds to the pleasure of living in a community.
When I vote in an election I vote for a mayor and council to provide leadership as they represent the “community.”
For council to say, “the community must decide” is an abdication of their responsibility.
I sincerely hope they will review, once they are fully apprised of the situation, their position on Mount Sima and take steps to keep the entire complex operational for both winter and summer activities. The community needs it.
Rolf Hougen
Whitehorse