By Corey Fischer

Games Pumped Millions Into Economy

Mar 26, 2018 | 4:47 PM

A new study says the 55 Plus BC Games last year had a big impact on the local economy.

The event — which featured 35 hundred participants in 27 sports — generated 3.3 million dollars in economic impact for the host communities in Greater Vernon and Armstrong-Spallumcheen.

The City of Vernon says that’s nine times more than what is cost to put on the event last September.

The study was conducted by the Okanagan College School of Business.

“This economic impact report adds to the exceptional feedback we received from the BC Seniors Games Society, participants, volunteers, sponsors, local businesses and community members that the Games were a resounding success,” said Wee Yee, Local Host Society President. “We were able to enhance the positive reputation of Vernon & Area through our welcoming and hospitable volunteers, the capability of organizing sports and events, and the support of our local business community.”

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The report measured direct impact (initial expenditure caused by the Games) at $1.95 million, indirect impact (secondary expenditure that occurs for supply of goods and services) of $970,000, induced impact (tertiary impact from employment and wages) of $370,000, and tax revenue (municipal and federal) of $300,000.

The Vernon & Area 2017 55+ BC Games were held September 12 to 16, 2017 with over 3,500 participants from across British Columbia and engaged over 1,300 volunteers. The Games were held throughout Greater Vernon, Armstrong and Spallumcheen with 27 different sports, in 35 venues spread throughout the communities.

Details of the Economic Impact Study can be viewed at https://goo.gl/LYedn3

by Corey Fischer