Title
Alberta Special Olympics Summer Games Sponsorship
Proposed Motion
That Council approve funding in the amount of $3,500 towards sponsorship of the Alberta Special Olympics Summer Games in Devon, Alberta.
Body
Administration is in support of the proposed motion
Purpose
The Town of Devon has requested support from Parkland County in hosting the 2013 Alberta Special Olympics Summer Games.
Summary
Parkland County has received a Letter of Request from the Town of Devon for the Alberta Special Olympics Summer Games (letter attached). The Games will be hosted in Devon from June 21-23, 2013. Nearly 650 athletes from around the province will compete in events such as bocce, golf, powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, and softball. The games are a stepping stone for athletes to qualify for Team Alberta, which will represent Alberta at the 2014 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Vancouver.
In 2012, Parkland County, Spruce Grove and Stony Plain successfully hosted the 2012 Alberta Winter Games. The hosting of this event was made possible through the tremendous cooperation of our municipalities as well as the support from businesses and volunteers. Not to be forgotten in this support is the manner in which one of our municipal neighbours stepped up when we were in need. Remembering back to February 2012, our area had a significant lack of snow. This necessitated having to move the cross country ski events from Chickakoo Lake to an area with more snow. The Town of Devon and its volunteers stepped up to the plate and provided the golf course as an alternative venue. The work done by the Town of Devon and their volunteers did not go unnoticed.
We now have the opportunity to assist the Town of Devon as they host the 2013 Alberta Special Olympics Summer Games. Parkland County has approached both Spruce Grove and Stony Plain to sponsor an event at the Devon Games. Both municipalities have agreed to funding $3,500 towards sponsorship of the games. Together with funding from Parkland County of $3,500, a sponsorship of $10,500 is possible. In discussions with the Devon Games organizers, a sponsorship package for the Athletes banquet has been arranged for a cost of $10,500. This will give the three municipalities maximum exposure to all of the athletes, coaches, officials and dignitaries involved with the Games.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications
The Town of Devon is a regional neighbour with whom we cost share on a number of facilities. Strengthening this relationship and partnership supports Council's Strategic Goal of furthering relationships with municipal neighbors and associations
Financial Impact:
Cost: $3,500
Source of Funding: Contingency