“Challenges related to market support and attendance were occurring prior to the COVID-19 crisis. When the current situation is considered in context of these broader challenges, it underscores the need to re-examine the operational and cost structure for future sustainability.” Brian Mastel, Commissioner of Public Services

The release says city officials are “working closely with ASM to ensure that events booked will be delivered as expected, and that the transition will be as seamless as possible” and that the impact the COVID-19 pandemic will have on some planned events is unknown.

The city intends to work closely with tenants, vendors and sponsors of the Canalta Centre to ensure stakeholder needs are understood, and to garner input for future planning purposes.

“The COVID-19 event has created an unprecedented challenge for the recreation and entertainment industry, and we wish to thank ASM Global for their service in operating the Canalta Centre,” added Mastel.

Most management positions currently with the Canalta Centre are expected to be consolidated by the city, however that framework has not yet been determined.

“Certainly when we’re adjusting the management away from a third-party contracted service to look to consolidate positions with the City, there will be some impacts to employees,” said Mastel. “That will become better known as we work through the transition plan over the coming period.”

The city will assume Canalta Centre operations in August of this year, while there is no word yet whether the city will continue to manage the facility once the pandemic is over.

General manager Tammy Sweeney posted the following statement on Facebook following the city’s announcement on Monday.

"ASM Global team has been proud to be a member of the Medicine Hat community for the past 5 years. We have enjoyed… Posted by Canalta Centre on Monday, April 13, 2020

“A lot of the patrons know Tammy and the staff there have put a lot of themselves into that facility to the benefit of this community,” said Mastel. “We hope we can pick up where they handed off and be able to continue to deliver high-level services and opportunities for entertainment.”