March 19, 2015 - Mayor Keith Hobbs and City Manager Tim Commisso met with the Hon. Michael Gravelle, Minister Northern Development and Mines, after reports stated the MPP was caught off guard following yesterday's briefing on the proposed Thunder Bay Event & Convention Centre project (TBECC). The follow-up meeting allowed an opportunity to go through the Report with the Minister and review the proposed financial plan.

"We regret the Minister was caught off guard," said Mayor Keith Hobbs. "Both he and Minister Mauro were aware the Phase 4 Update Report would be coming to Council next week however, were not aware of the media briefing taking place ahead of time."

"Overall this was a good meeting, and Minister Gravelle still maintains his support for the project and is working with his colleagues in an attempt to secure funding. It was confirmed that the Province is not in a position to confirm any funding before the end of March, and while there are no guarantees until a definite answer is received, the City remains positive. Minister Gravelle indicated the City's application is still under review and will take some time."

A report with an Update on Phase 4 of the TBECC including conditional approval to move to Detailed Design and Construction should the funding come through, will be presented to City Council on Monday, March 23 with a decision on Thursday, March 26.

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Contact:  Mayor Keith Hobbs, 625-3601