Re; Performing Arts Centre
I am not of the opinion that taxpayers of Prince George should be burdened with financing the cost of a large elaborate and costly performing arts centre in Prince George, which could prove to be too expensive for both rehearsal use and ticket buyers to the shows that will be put on there.
We already have a number of venues like the CN Centre, Vanier Hall, The Playhouse, and Civic Centre, that have been used for large, medium and smaller audiences, some of which are not used that often it seems, and if replaced by a large facility will end up sitting idle, and in time will be demolished.
I think we should make do with what we have! In some cases these facilities are being used for different types of entertainment, which is commendable.
However, the cost of building such a facility is scandalous when businesses in Prince George are closing, due to the devastating effect of the pine beetle on the lumber market here.
I wonder why Prince George City Hall paid $520,000 for the former Norgate Auto Body site for the purpose of building this expensive white elephant? There should have been more discussion about whether there was a need for an opulent facility to be built here, when the population is declining, and schools have been closed, before purchasing land for it to be located on?
In the past the Arts Community has not shown good taste in some of the entertainment they have provided. I, for one, would not like my taxes to finance this expensive venture. I suggest that if they want an expensive, glitzy concert hall, let them pay for it.
Julia Serup
Prince George
