Photo: Contributed - B.C. Games Society

Okanagan take part in opening ceremonies at a previous games.

The City of Kelowna is expected to make a bid to host the 55+ B.C. Games in 2019.

Staff has spent the last two months gauging community interest and the bid process for hosting the 2017, 2018 or 2019 games after being urged to by the games society.

Event development supervisor Mariko Siggers said School District 23, local senior's societies and sports groups have all given their support.

Siggers added the city has adequate facilities to host the games. If successful in its bid the city would be required to make a $115,000 financial commitment which includes an in-kind contribution of $55,000 primarily for facility rentals.

In her report to council Siggers said, while Kelowna could host any of the three years, 2019 would be the most desirable.

"In 2017, Canada will celebrate its 150th anniversary and many initiatives will be taking place throughout the community with the potential to detract from the 55+ games," said Siggers in her report.

"Holding the games in 2019 would allow staff and the community ample time to prepare and build organizational capacity by hosting lead-up events. Therefore, the bid application will rank 2019 as first choice, 2018 as second choice and 2017 as third choice."

While the games can be held in either August or September, Siggers is recommending September.

"August dates overlap the Apple Triathlon and there is more hotel capacity for participants in September."

The games would potentially attract up to 4,000 competitors in 31 sports and activities.

While a conservative estimate indicates the games could result in a $2 million economic impact, a study following the Langley games in 2014 showed a direct benefit of $3.1 million.

A majority of the economic impact is a direct result of hotel and restaurant spending.

Kelowna last hosted the games in 2000.