There could still be hope for Chapleau's Gold Rush Nationals Drag Race - but organizers and the Township appear to be at an impasse.
While he had previously stated that "at this point, the drag races aren't going to happen" - as no agreement was signed with the Township of Chapleau by the January 31st deadline - Drag Race Chair Richard Bignucolo - vice president of the CRDC, which organized the drag race - says the event could still happen, with the "right" agreement.
Mayor Michael Levesque isn't rejecting the possibility of a deal, either, emphasizing the Township and Council are open to the event.
As for the issues holding up the agreement, Bignucolo points to a few items.
Mayor Levesque - however - says the liability clause would only see the CRDC held liable, part of a standard facility use agreement, outlining the Township's stance in a statement to JJAM FM.
While Bignucolo takes issue with the way negotiations were conducted - saying he wanted to sit down at the table with the Township but was told to talk through lawyers - Mayor Levesque raises concerns with the CRDC's requests.
Bignucolo expresses frustration at the lack of a deal, pointing to support for the event.
Bignucolo also points to work done by drag race volunteers to help at the airport, paving a portion of the runway, which he says cost over $61,000 - something that was necessary for the first event to happen.
Mayor Levesque emphasizes the Township "has not left the negotiating table", with new proposed terms being drafted, to be presented to the CRDC early next week.