'This is what they need to continue': REAL organization says it's at risk of having to close operations

Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) says without a boost in city funding, it’s at risk of having to close operations.

Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) says without a boost in city funding, it’s at risk of having to close operations.

“It’s the truth,” CEO Tim Reid told reporters.

Reid, along with REAL board chair and city manager Niki Anderson presenting their budget request to council as part of the second day of Regina budget deliberations.

“We would come and say, ‘There’s optimism’ or, ‘There’s going to be a great return,’” Reid said. “But the truth is our margins aren’t what they used to be.”

REAL originally requested $5.8 million from the city in a proposal on Nov. 14.

City administration recommended $2.5 million in grant funding on Nov. 17.

The following week, councillors debated the dissolving of the organization altogether, ultimately voting to remove the board of directors on Nov. 22.