Due to a lack of information coming from the Unified MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and the Central Alberta Combative Sports Commission in its request to hold a tournament in the City of Wetaskiwin city councillors have decided not to host the event.
“I do feel like we’re walking blindly into this,” said Coun. Patricia MacQuarrie during council’s March 12 meeting.
Councillors stated they were not made aware of several key points that would influence their decision and the organizations never contacted city staff to discuss the tournament.
“There were several aspects that were completely unknown such as the serving of alcohol, security, seating requirements, insurance coverage, etc,” said city manager Dave Burgess in an email to the Pipestone Flyer.
Mayor Tyler Gandam added the applicant once contacted him in an attempt to meet. However, the request was made the same date the meeting was requested and under such short notice Gandam did not see the request in time.
Related: Combative sports demonstration splits Wetaskiwin city council