It’s a result that will send the Town of Renfrew back to the drawing board with its signature events.
Town Council used their meeting on Tuesday, September 12th, to discuss the Economic Development Committee’s report on the Renfrew Roots Music Festival and were less than happy to learn that what was expected to bring in around $54,000 in revenue lost $85,000 instead.
Chief Administrative Officer Rob Tremblay says the document acknowledges that the event did have some success in bringing people into town, but logistic issues and lower than expected attendance ultimately hurt the bottom line.
Reeve Peter Emon says that the results, which were first made public during the latest committee session at the end of August, will be followed up by a review of Renfrew’s role as a producer of major events like the festival due this fall.
Several councilors voiced their disappointment in the event’s financial shortcomings, with Councilor Andrew Dick apologizing to the taxpayers for voting ‘yes’ to the event.
He explained that it looked like an “amazing opportunity” for the town at the time, but it did not execute as desired.
Tremblay would also note that, while the town’s involvement in certain events is changing, they are able to set aside event space if a group like the former Bluegrass or another privately run festival wants to make plans.
(written by Kasey Egan)
