The policy is under process, after city council requested a report into the finances and sponsorship contract for the Cariboo Rocks the North music festival.

The City of Prince George is developing a managerial procedure regarding sponsorships for all ticketed city events.

The move comes after city council demanded a report into the finances and sponsorship contract between the City of Prince George and Pacific Western Brewing regarding the yearly Cariboo Rocks the North music festival.

 

 

“I don’t think it must have ever have got to this point,” Coun. Brian Skakun said. “It’s a great event – it’s not about that. It’s about having clearness.”

Skakun said he has concerns about the lack of acknowledgment that the event is owned and produced by the City of Prince George, and said he hopes the new rule under development addresses that.

Coun. Tim Bennett said he was glad to to see the happening was profitable, starting in its second year.

City director of civic facilities and events Andy Beesley said a report will come back to city council, once the new managerial procedure is ready. Beesley also acclaimed the work of city entertainment manager Glen Mikkelsen, who manages the event.

“We are in very good hands,” Beesley said.              

Coun. Kyle Sampson, who achieves the event on behalf of Pacific Western Brewing, did not participate in the discussion of the report, due to a conflict of interest. Coun. Cori Ramsay pointed out that Sampson was not a member of city council in 2018 when the early contract for the event was negotiated and signed.

“When there is possible for battle of interest, it is imperative we have clearness on that,” Coun. Trudy Klassen said. “It’s never a waste of taxpayer money or staff time to ensure we do things right.”