Seven Companies Interested In Buying Or Leasing TD Station, Aquatic Centre
SAINT JOHN — Seven companies have expressed interest in buying or leasing one of two regional facilities in Saint John.
The city said it received four expressions of interest for the TD Station arena and four for the Canada Games Aquatic Centre.
Coun. David Hickey, whose ward includes both facilities, said he is thrilled by the number of companies which came forward.
“Going into this, we were cautiously optimistic on the proposal,” said Hickey in an interview Tuesday.
“There were certainly some concerns listed and certainly given our challenges in managing these facilities, I think opening it up and having this conversation is a really important one.”
In January, city officials announced they were seeking private operators for TD Station and the Canada Games Aquatic Centre.
It comes as the cash-strapped city looks to reduce its overall financial commitments and solve its fiscal challenges.
Hickey said it is great to see both local and international companies are interested in taking over the facilities.
“People from the Elias Management Group, which are taking over the operation and new development of the Fundy Quay, we’ve also got companies like ASM Global, which manages the AT&T Center, which is where the San Antonio Spurs play,” he said.
Beyond the level of interest, Hickey said it shows how the real the economic shift is that is happening in the city and how the focus on growth is paying off.
“I think it’s a really positive model for what’s to come,” said Hickey. “For me as a councillor, looking ahead to the future of our fiscal reality, I think it shows the value and the need for growth.”
According to the city, a committee made up of senior city staff and others will now evaluate each submission and meet with all parties to review their submissions.
“This complex process will take place over the next several months. Next steps in the process will be determined as the process moves forward,” wrote spokesperson Lori Lambert in an email.
“This exploratory process is designed to reach the best possible outcome for the future of each of the facilities, the city and its neighbours.”
Hickey said while city council will not be involved in in-depth discussions, he wants to ensure the city keeps representing the best interest of community members.
“At the end of the day, these two facilities are of significant interest to the community, they’re really important players in bringing our community together, and having these assets at the disposal of our residents, making sure that they maintain that status and I would say even grow that status is really important,” he said.
There are five regional facilities located in Saint John, including Imperial Theatre, the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre, and the Saint John Arts Centre.
Respondents for TD Station:
- Nustadia Recreation Inc.
- JSM Sports Entertainment Inc.
- ASM Global
- Spectra
Respondents for Canada Games Aquatic Centre:
- Elias Management Group Inc.
- StandGuard Aquatics
- Nustadia Recreation Inc.
- Sports Facilities Management, LLC and SFM Aquatics LLC