Referendum Question

City council has approved the wording for September's South Okanagan Event Centre (SOEC) referendum.

During a special meeting held Monday, council confirmed the wording of the question that voters will answer on September 16th.

The question is, 'Do you approve of the city borrowing up to $29,063,000 for construction of the events centre and a maximum of $7 million for site servicing and construction improvements?'

The result of this question will be legally binding. However, the results of a second question answered by voters will not be.

Voters will also be asked if they approve of a management company operating and managing the SOEC, the Memorial Arena and the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre for up to 20 years.

Mayor Jake Kimberley says this is a way to show respect of the public's interest.

"I am confident the motion will pass when brought before the public because I think most people realize the benefit the SOEC will have on our community," says Kimberley.