City Supports Outdoor Winter Activities through Renewed Partnerships

The City is proud to announce the renewal of two ten-year license agreements with Mount Evergreen Ski Club and Kenora Nordic and Biathlon Club. These agreements reaffirm the City’s dedication to outdoor recreation, four season tourism, active lifestyles and supporting local businesses.

Through these partnerships the City is committed to ensuring the ongoing operation of these popular winter, family-oriented activities, while also encouraging healthy lifestyles and outdoor enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.

Since 2019, the City has invested a total of $165,000 in Mount Evergreen Ski Club from the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT). This funding has been pivotal in the club attracting additional support from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund (NOHFC), resulting in over $626,500 in upgrades and improvements. These enhancements have enhanced the club’s facilities and user experience which helps to support local businesses that benefit from outdoor tourism.

Josh Nelson, Tourism Development Officer at the City, highlighted the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Supporting Mount Evergreen Ski Club is about more than just recreation — it’s about fostering a vibrant, healthy community, supporting our local businesses, and creating memorable experiences for families. These investments help position Kenora as a top destination for outdoor winter fun and wellness.”

The City’s contributions have enabled Mount Evergreen Ski Club to develop a comprehensive four-season business plan, maintain and upgrade equipment to ensure longevity, and carry out essential facility upgrades to promote long-term sustainability and the growth of family-focused fun. Most recently, the City announced a $50,000 contribution to assist with replacing critical infrastructure for the Colin Myles and Skyline tows, ensuring safety and operational excellence.

Thomas Nabb, President of Mount Evergreen Board of Directors, shares, “The City’s $50,000 MAT contribution is essential to the upkeep and future planning of important infrastructure at Mount Evergreen Ski and Recreational Area. The City continues to be a key partner of Mount Evergreen and supports us to ensure that the facility remains a winter destination in Kenora for all to enjoy."

In 2023, Kenora Nordic and Biathlon Club received $100,000 in funding, while in 2024, the City allocated an additional $100,000 to Mount Evergreen Ski Club for facility upgrades and equipment purchases. These investments aim to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of family-oriented winter activities.

These investments strengthen Kenora’s ability to offer fun activities that bring families together and boost the local economy. Mayor Poirier emphasizes, “The City’s investments through the MAT reflect our commitment to fostering outdoor recreation, supporting local businesses, and strengthening our community’s economy. Supporting outdoor recreation helps create a vibrant, four-season destination where everyone can enjoy meaningful experiences year-round.”

The City would like to acknowledge and thank the work of the staff and volunteers of Mount Evergreen Ski Club and Kenora Nordic and Biathlon Club for their dedication, passion and hard work in making it a destination for all to enjoy.

These collaborations demonstrate how the City actively invests in its community assets, ensuring sustainable growth and outdoor enjoyment for generations to come.

Media contact

Mya Horley, Senior Communications Advisor, City of Kenora