Sturgis site manager Steve Hammer told council Monday that while some mistakes were made, overall, the inaugural event was a success.
“The talk downtown for the majority has been positive… other than one phone call that it was the worst thing ever done to Salmon Arm, it’s all been positive,” said Hammer.
Hammer added, however, that there were issues still being dealt with, such as local suppliers not being paid.
“Ray Sasseville has assured everybody they will be paid but there was some issues with some local suppliers who have not been paid as of yet,” said Hammer. “I’m keeping real close tabs on them and am in conversation with them (suppliers) on a daily basis to make sure.
“I know the funds are available so there’s no reason they won’t be paid.”
Hammer said he’s also looked out for volunteers.
“The volunteers, the people who came out did get paid because I personally made sure and I’ve charged Sturgis North for it.”14:36:04
As for the future of the event, Hammer said he thinks it will return to Salmon Arm.
“I don’t know if it will come back under the same regime or not, but I believe the event hopefully will come back to Salmon Arm,” Hammer explained, adding it would be done a little bit differently. For instance, he said it will likely just be held at the Gleneden venue.
Coun. Chad Eliason said it was a very loud week in Salmon Arm, and that he’d heard from many how they’d never seen traffic like that, especially on the highway downtown. He also commented on the police presence, which he did not find excessive.
“I think it’s easier to keep it clean than to get clean, and I think having that presence really set a tone for what people can expect in the future,” said Eliason.
Coun. Alan Harrison, who has made known his apprehension over the event, said he respected the work Hammer has done.
“I certainly won’t judge the event, because I know there is a variety of opinions out there, but what you’ve told us is that you’re certainly reflecting on it, you’ll take the best things from it and leave the other things out, so thank you very much,” said Harrison.