Bidding on the Brier among discussions for Regina city council

Regina city council is preparing to discuss whether or not a bid should be placed to host the 2024 Tim Hortons Brier, the annual Canadian men’s curling championship.

According to the agenda for Wednesday’s meeting, the economic impact of hosting the Brier is estimated by Curling Canada to generate a minimum of $8 million to $12 million for the local economy.

“On average, production of the Brier is supported through the efforts of over 400 volunteers,” the report read. “Visitor expenditures, combined with the operational expenditures and revenues of the host committee, expenditures by members of the media, and others, contribute to a net increase in economic activity throughout the host community.

“Hotel rooms booked by Curling Canada alone contribute 2,250 room nights to the local economy.”

The agenda says Curl Regina — a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of curling in the city — would need to demonstrate a plan to host the event through a comprehensive budget and event plan.

Council would also need recognition by the organization that the city would accept no obligations for deficits, loans, or guarantees as a result of hosting the Brier.

There would also need to be a commitment by Curl Regina to provide a follow-up report that identifies how the city’s funding was used in hosting the Brier.

The city’s $200,000 bid would consist of a $125,000 cash grant in addition to the provision of Regina Transit services valued up to $75,000.

Regina last hosted the Brier in 2018.

The 2024 Brier would take place from March 1 to 10.