A long-anticipated motion to develop two so-called Sudbury "legacy projects" worth a combined total of nearly $110 million was barely defeated on the council floor at a special meeting called to hear the matter on Oct. 21.
A multi-use recreational centre worth $60 million was on the table alongside a $50-million performing arts centre. Following political resistance in recent months, these two projects were moved onto a plan which also included two roads-related projects worth $95 million, in an American-style multi-item proposal.
The effort was defeated by a vote of seven to six, with those in favor including Mayor John Rodriguez, who has long been the legacy projects' most vocal proponent.
Dissenters pointed to rough economic waters and worsening roads as a central reason for the projects' defeat. Up to $40 million was expected to be raised through private sector and community fundraising, including the major mining companies.
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