The North Bay Battalion and the City of North Bay both collectively say they have not met to deal with a clause in the North Bay Battalion lease that could leave taxpayers on the hook if the Battalion does not hit its targeted season ticket revenue.
"'Season Ticket Revenue Shortfall' means the amount by which the Season Ticket Revenues for a Hockey Season are less than $750,000," a clause in the Battalion lease with the city reads.
The Ontario Hockey League announced earlier this month a plan to start a 64-game schedule on December 1, 2020.
“We are looking forward to getting back to playing hockey, but are committed to ensuring that we do so in a manner that is safe and healthy for our players, officials, families, billets, teams, staff, fans and the community,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch in a release.
Mike Griffin, President of the North Bay Battalion, says it's too early to say anything about season ticket revenue when they have no idea yet as to how many fans will be permitted into Memorial Gardens by the start of this strange new season.
"We can’t make any comment about season tickets until the government and health authorities give us guidelines/restrictions." Battalion President Mike Griffin told BayToday in an email.
See related: Battalion ready to battle as OHL regular season start date announced
Officials with the City of North Bay also say the issue has not been brought up by the Battalion.
"The City of North Bay recognizes the significant challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has created for the sports world, and we would expect that future discussions would take place with the North Bay Battalion regarding any potential impact on our lease agreement with the team," Gord Young, communications officer with the City of North Bay stated in an email to BayToday.
"To date, there have been no requests made by the Battalion to the City. Specific inquiries about season ticket sales should be directed to the Battalion."
The North Bay Battalion website says pricing information for 2020-21 season tickets will be posted on the website soon.
