Council refused to playing ball with a local church group by providing lower rates for municipal facilities.
Minto councillors recently turned down a request from Kim Van Andel for financial support for a church soccer team. Typically the fee to use the soccer fields is: $250 for five games; or $18 per player for the same number of games. Clerk Barb Wilson said the group did not wish to pay either. She said that is the same fee for other minor soccer teams.
Deputy-mayor Judy Dirksen noted church groups play in a number of communities.
Mayor David Anderson said Van Andel’s letter stated the team is comprised of 14 to 25-year-olds, and plays five or six games in Palmerston a year and wants to keep costs low.
Last year, the team attempted to renegotiate fees; this year it is asking for a donation in the form of a large discount, he said.
Councillor Wayne Martin said to sent the issue to the parks and recreation committee.
Wilson pointed out the fees are the standard rates charged to community groups, but the church group still wants to negotiate a better deal.
Martin said “I’m involved in minor soccer – and we pay the going rate.”
Councillor Dave Turton asked if this request represents only one church.
Dirksen believes there are several involved in the church soccer league.
Dirksen, pointed out the motion of support was vague, because it did not indicate any amount of a donation.
