C-K still open for OHL business

ohl

Despite a recommendation by staff, Chatham-Kent will remain open to the possibility of hosting an OHL franchise.

After the issue was separated from the overall report, council voted 9-9, which keeps the possibility open for Chatham-Kent to host an OHL team if the opportunity arises again.

Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor made the successful motion.

A detailed staff report listed several reasons why an OHL-style arena was not something they feel should be pursued.

“Based on factors such as lack of a preferred downtown location, high capital cost, no federal or provincial funding contributions, potential municipal risks assumed with a lease agreement, large annual deficits, and the loss of a 65 year Jr. B hockey presence, it is recommended that an OHL arena not be pursued for Chatham-Kent,” the staff report states.

The report states the projected cost to build an arena suitable to the needs of an OHL franchise would be $60 million.

“If Chatham-Kent pays the entire cost, this would raise taxes by $3 million per year for 20 years.”

Teams that have shown interest in setting up shop in Chatham-Kent over the years are the Hunter brothers, who proposed a franchise in 1990, the Ice Dogs, the Otters and the Whalers.

A staff report is set to some forward to council addressing the immediate needs of all arenas in Chatham-Kent.

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