Allied Arts Council:
Lethbridge City Council has demonstrated its commitment to building a Performing Arts Centre in its recent Capital Improvement Program. Will you advocate for the completion of this project?
A
Burke
Answer
I believe that the building of a Performance Arts Centre is overdue in this City. This centre would bring more opportunity to Lethbridge, and capitalize on the opportunities currently being missed. By continually delaying this project, we will inevitably cost the taxpayer more money in the long run, and make this initiative even more contentious instead of something that should be celebrated as an opportunity to grow
C
Burrows-Johnson
Answer
Yes, I support the construction of a first class Performing Arts Centre and would encourage all levels of government, the private sector and individual donors to assist with completion of this project.
M
Campbell
Answer
Yes. Historically, Lethbridge has a great tradition with a Performing Arts Theatre. The Yates is filled to capacity every year. We miss out on touring shows. It's important.
J
Carlson
Answer
Yes. Again, this is an economic AND a cultural investment in our community. Our current facilities are outdated, small, and at capacity. Quality productions are bypassing our city for other venues, and building this facility will allow for many more entertainment opportunities for our residents and visitors. I was the driving force behind Council's commitment to this facility, and I would like to see it continue to move forward.
J
Coffman
Answer
As I stated in question #17, I would advocate for a PAC but that the successful proposal must include: a) a strong business case; b) a sustainable business plan for the operation of the facility, with this plan created and debated prior to construction, and; c) a facility design based on long-term sustainability and multi-functionality. Regardless of the plan, though, the designated theatre space must be built for performances with integrity to the visual and acoustical attributes.
B
Crowson
Answer
If funding can be secured, I would absolutely advocate for the completion of this project.
C
Germshied
Answer
Yes, but it should be looked at in conjunction with a convention and events center along the lines of what exhibition park was proposing.
Z
Gibb
Answer
I am absolutely in favour of moving forward with our Performing Arts Centre and will be an advocate for it if elected.
B
Ginther
Answer
Absolutely! Our current Performing Arts Centre is a relic from the past and in order to be viable thereby attracting quality entertainment it must be modernixed as needed to be successful.
M
Heavy Head
Answer
Before a shovel of dirt has been turned, the city has already invested $500,000 in planning the performing arts centre. To abandon it would be a terrible waste of time and taxpayer funds. Seeing the project through, with the best use of taxpayer funds in mind, and perhaps in partnership with private industry, may see the performing arts centre built to its full potential. Again, here is an instance where P3's serve the public good, provided of course that those private investors do not infringe on the public's ability to create and perform within that space. (ie: if an anti-capitalist anti-bank play was to be performed, & a bank was the principle investor, the bank has no right to stop it).
R
Hoffarth
Answer
Yes, given that it continues to be a valuable, and viable project according to majority of our citizens.
B
Hyggen
Answer
The building of a Performing Arts Centre has been one of the top priorities in the community for many years and I am committed to work towards the completion of this project.
L
Iwaskiw
Answer
Yes.
R
Janzen
Answer
Candidate declined to answer the question.
K
Layton
Answer
Candidate declined to answer the question.
S
MacLeod
Answer
I understand why people want a new Performing Art Centre, I believe that we must explore co-location options that will provide the long term sustainability and economic efficiency for the ongoing maintenance and staffing of the facility. We need to collaborate to ensure this project fits the community needs for the next 50 years.
J
Mauro
Answer
The decision was made by council during the recent CIP approvals. Everything is in place for the process to begin to get it to a "shovel ready" stage.
D
Mikuliak
Answer
Yes. This venue will be a legacy building (one that will last for generations) and is an important piece in the amenities puzzle in Lethbridge. It will relieve the demands on the Yates Centre as a performing venue for local and non-local groups. It will provide opportunity for more outside arts group to visit the city and provide more opportunity for citizens to consume performing arts.
R
Miyashiro
Answer
I will advocate for its completion when we have a viable funding model that doesn't create undo stressors on the City's budget (capital and operational) and that it doesn't create an unreasonable tax burden on residents.
R
Morrell
Answer
Yes I would advocate for the completion of this project.
N
Paladino
Answer
Candidate declined to answer the question.
R
Parker
Answer
Yes.
H
PEREVERSEFF
Answer
The Building of a Performing Arts Centre is a definite and recognized "want" in Lethbridge and surrounding community. I too enjoy having a centre to attend for concerts and shows. I do not believe that capital expenditures for the building should come entirely from the tax payer base. If a building to be considered, the community wanting this should determine a private funding structure through corporate sponsorship and or fund raising efforts. Existing performance centres are adequate, in particular, with ongoing upgrades to the Yates Memorial Theatre the community is well served. Lethbridge is conveniently situated to performance centres in Medicine Hat, Calgary and Edmonton.
J
Pogorzelski
Answer
100% yes. A brand new performing arts centre is long overdue.
L
Saloff
Answer
Yes, we need to have Art, it is what makes change.
J
Shackleford
Answer
I would prefer a plebiscite on this issue and let taxpayers decide. In 2010 the costs were pegged at $70,000,000.00 dollars so today I would guess it would be $100,000,000.00+ I have talked to a lot of people who see it as a waste of money and not a wise investment for the city.
C
Spearman
Answer
Yes. I am prepared to work with the Arts community to develop the plan, advocate for external funding and look for ways to complete this project.
J
Takahashi
Answer
Yes. To me it's not just a matter of advocating but finding ways to speed the project along. A preforming arts centre is long overdue in our city. As I've stated not only is art a benefit to the community in terms of education and enrichment but it can also be a boon to the economy and in community growth. The centre will provide jobs and opportunities in growth, tourism, and in employment.
B
Thurber
Answer
Absolutley. This centre can be a focal point for the community bringing pepople in form all around. It can be a catylist for further art development and can support spin off business.
S
Watson
Answer
Absolutely. It is a needed facility in our community. It will provide job and development opportunities to students and graduates from our post-secondary institutions, as well as create a space for local talent to develop professional skills and can support local artists in giving them a platform to create their shows. It will also allow us to attract shows to our area that we can not currently support. This would again help with job creation and economic development opportunities.
D
Wiggers
Answer
Without a question of a doubt, yes. It is important to the vibrancy of Lethbridge's Arts & Entertainment culture.
R
Woss
Answer
Yes I will.