A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by Elliot Lake council and will allow Mt. Dufour to operate a hill climb competition on April 1.
The issue was raised at council by the city manager of economic development Steve Antunes who requested council approval for the competition. The MOU allows the Mount Dufour Ski Area the right to extend its insured licence area to cover the entire facility.
“Mount Dufour Ski Area in the past has hosted a hill climb with great success,” Antunes said in a report to council. “This event brings in participants from across Ontario to climb Mount Dufour on snowmobiles in a race against the clock.”
The Mt. Dufour website states it is 20 years since the hill climb was staged here.
He added that discussions he has had with Mt. Dufour manager Dave Brunet indicate that so far 17 entrants have registered to take part in the snowmobiling event.
“Facilitating a hill climb event on April 1 could generate additional revenue at the end of the season for the not-for-profit club and draw tourists into the community,” he added. “This event draws in participants and spectators alike."
The event would be hosted at the ski hill and would be completely run and managed by Mount Dufour Ski Area. It includes a licensed spectator area for which the club has acquired all necessary permits.
The club has also purchased a $5-million special event policy which has the city named as an additional insured.
The MOU includes the entire facility and grounds at 10 Ski Hill Road, including the parking lot. and will ensure the city holds no liability for any incident regardless of location at the site.
“This is an excellent example of a partnership between the Municipality and a private group to host an event,” Antunes said.
According to Coun. Charles Flintoff organizers are looking for volunteers to help with the competition.