70-80,000 people in one place at one time has economic spin off written all over it. Why would our Halifax Councillor want to put an end to that?
Coun. Jennifer Watts wants to put a ban on Commons concerts effective next year, having them moved to the Garrison Grounds. In my opinion, this venue is too small. It has also been suggested we have concerts outside the city, this wouldn’t be good either as it would produce much less economic spin off for downtown Halifax, where all of the best restaurants, bars and hotels can be found. This is just a quick walk from the site. The Commons is also easy to get to from any direction using many roads and public transit.
This morning, as I was reading Metro, I saw one of the many articles covering the story, ironically, directly below it was an article on how we may need to raise municipal taxes to get rid of our growing deficit. These concerts are one of the creative ways this city brings in money. Last year, the city brought in $24 million in economic spin off as a result of the Paul McCartney and KISS concerts. Its good for Halifax! Coun. Watts, GIVE YOUR HEAD A SHAKE!
Another issue addressed was the noise of the concerts. A little music will never hurt anyone, especially when it only happens a couple of days out of the year. In fact, most people in the apartments around the Commons are taking advantage of this by having parties on their balconies. Who wouldn’t enjoy music all through the city, I know if I were walking around and could hear “Hey Jude” echoing off the buildings and the crowd screaming every word, I would have goosebumps, and sing along too!
There was also talk of the disruption this may cause to the athletic areas of the Commons. These concerts are “special events”, they only happen once or twice a year. The reason people work day and night before and after to set up and tear down is not because they want to work at night, but rather because they want to minimize disruption. When the Dalplex closes during exams, do other members complain? NO! because these are other “special events” that happen only occasionally, and everyone understands.
In my mind, this city and Jennifer Watts have more important things to worry about, and should not waste their time on something that is right to begin with, so it is my hope that the city continues to promote the Commons as a live concert venue. I know that in the next election, I will watch who I vote for!
Have a nice day!
CM