For most of us we would have to agree that having the PAN AM games here in Toronto was a great experience for all those that were able to attend it and certainly for the local economy as well. Many would say that it was even worth the cost which was a pretty hefty to be able to host this type of massive event.
While most are not complaining about the cost for what many are concerned about is the waste of money at that seems to have occurred during the entirety of this event. One of the biggest complaints that many have brought forth is concerning the rental vehicles. While it is certainly not questioned as to whether rental vehicles were needed what is questioned is the amount of money that was spent on the washing of these vehicles, and their maintenance which estimates are showing was over $10,000. The complaint is that many of these cars were left sitting unused and yet were sparkling clean.
The budget for the Pan Am games rang in at $2.5 billion others feel that the money was wasted when it came to the rented tents. These came in at a cost of approximately $10,000 each with the total cost bringing in at $8.1 million there was also a questionable cost of $1.4 million for the leveling of the floor for the Athlete’s village but this would seem to be a reasonable requirement.
Probably one of the biggest contentions when it came to cost was that which was associated with the mascot which had last been recorded as costing $383,045. Part of this cost included $33,250 mascot research and then there was $3,685 for cleaning and repairs. For those that are unsettled about overall cost of the pan and games it hasn’t even taken into account the spending of from the former CEO.
Of course there is a lot of complaining about the HOV lanes. Basically it’s going to come down to a matter of individual opinion as to whether the Pan Am games were worth the cost that is been racked up which of course is hitting the pockets of the taxpayers. Although there are many complaints about the overspending it must not be forgotten that in general this type of event was most beneficial for many of the businesses and the local economy and in general for giving the city a boost with some type of festivity that was enjoyed by many, many people.
