Rimbey town council wants to see the midway come back to town in conjunction with the rodeo.
At its Mon. April 13 meeting, council unanimously agreed to provide the agricultural board with a $5,000 grant to serve as a guarantee for the midway company.
Coun. Jack Webb said having the midway come to town is a win/win for everyone.
“When we used to have the midway come to town, was a very busy day,” he said, later, noting the spinoffs for all the businesses is positive.
He stressed that the $5,000 is only a guarantee to bring the midway to town and the council could get its initial investment back if the weather is favorable. However, he noted that the town would get at least a portion of the $5,000 back, depending on the sale of rides.
In her report to council, interim chief administrative officer, Donna Tona said the Rimbey Rodeo has always been a celebration within the town of its agricultural roots and an opportunity to showcase the heritage of farming and ranching.
“It is a chance for businesses to dress up their businesses, dress western and take in the festivities of the event,” she said. “It is a chance for families to have a great weekend with each other.”
She said Rimbey has had a midway in the past, however, inclement weather events have prompted midways to demand guarantees.
“It does bring people to the town and definitely helps the rodeo,’ said Coun. Brian Godlongton.
Council unanimously voted in favour of providing $5,000 as a guarantee to bring the midway to town during rodeo days.