A funding application error is placing the future of the Mission Soapbox Derby in jeopardy.
Keith Hine, president of the annual race, spoke before council on Monday night to express his concerns.
Hine said the organization did not apply for funding from the district this year, because they missed the new deadlines established by council last year.
“It’s totally my fault, because I was confused,” Hine admitted.
He explained to council that last year the group received an email saying applications were available for pickup, but no application was submitted for 2017.
“I’ve got nobody to blame but myself,” he said.
Hine has asked council if they could accept the group’s application, for $4,200, late.
He said the funding is desperately needed and without it the race is “in jeopardy.”
Hine said most people don’t realize how costly the event is to put on. For example, he said renting the hay bales for one day costs $3,300 while security is $2,200, bathrooms $500 and “it goes on and on.”
Hine said although they have many good sponsors, more are always needed and the district’s funding is crucial to the budget.
“We’re non-profit. At the end of the race day, we are broke again.”
Council has advised staff to look into the issue to see if there is anything that can be done to fix the oversight.
After the meeting, Hine was optimistic.
“I think they were receptive,” he said about his request to council.
“After all, it’s been going on since 1947. It’s part of the history, especially now with Mission’s 125th birthday,” he said.
Anyone who would like to sponsor, or volunteer at, this year’s soapbox derby can contact Hine directly at 604-820-2048 or visit missionsoapbox.com.