Owen Sound could play host to some tall ships in 2013 as part of the bicentennial celebration of the War of 1812
It’s not known how many ships would visit the city’s harbour during what’s being billed the Tall Ships Challenge 2013 Great Lakes Series.
But City Council has heard it would likely be between three and five or maybe even six ships — and they could even include the famous Bluenose II.
What is clear is that it would cost Owen Sound almost 34 thousand dollars in order to be confirmed as a host site for the flotilla.
City council approved the idea in principle on Monday night.
This doesn’t commit the city to spending the cash, but it does make Owen Sound’s interest known to organizers, who have identified the port as one of 18 potential sites in Ontario, five of which would be on Georgian Bay.
The city now has several weeks in which to determine how it would come up with the fee.
Director of Community Services Pam Coulter says partnerships and sponsorships could be sought to help offset it or cover it entirely.
Staff will now start working on a business plan which will be presented to council in September.
If council agrees, the ships would visit Owen Sound over two weekends in August 2013. Celebrations could be planned for a period of time that would encompass both weekends.
Coulter and Councillor Jim McManaman — the Chair of the city’s Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee — both say it’s a privilege for Owen Sound to be considered for inclusion in this landmark event.
