Council reacted on April 26 to a letter sent by Carol Albo that asked about the potential for alternative ways to spend the $20,000 subsidy to Rosslanders who use recreational facilities in Trail.
Albo noted that although the money is set aside for “non-profit societies serving children, disadvantaged people, or seniors,” that the list was compiled “in the fall for the following year’s use.”
Albo suggested “an easier system” in which all Rosslanders use the Trail facilities, but employees there keep track of “names, phone numbers, and usage numbers” and send the bill to Rossland.
“The big issue is that we’re not able to sponsor individuals,” said Mayor Greg Granstrom.
As to the specifics of Albo’s suggestion, the mayor said, “first of all, that would be up to the City of Trail.”
CAO Victor Kumar confirmed, “the only way we can get around that is if the city of Rossland is running the program.”
Coun. Laurie Charlton said “Trail has made it perfectly clear. If they’re going to bill us anything, it’s $135,000 no matter how many people use the pool.”
“I want to remind everyone that the city of Rossland did make a proposal that was turned down,” Coun. Kathy Wallace added.
“It was required that we make a contribution to many other facilities as well, and Trail wasn’t open to discussing recreation issues until sewer issues were dealt with. It’s a really unfortunate situation, but it’s pretty much out of our hands.”
Nevertheless, the mayor said council took the request seriously and would respond to the letter.