Mount Sima might close, for good, at the end of this ski season.

If you’ve been listening to the news lately, you’ve probably heard over 100 Yukoners gathered in the city council chambers this Tuesday to show their support for Mount Sima. The hill, which is run by the Great Northern Ski Society, is asking the city for $400,000 to keep operations open. They also want ongoing annual funding.

The ski hill’s president, Craig Hougen, has told media he doesn’t envision the funding to be permanent. Rather, the ski society sees the support decreasing every year for the next five years, eventually tapering off to nothing.

Sima supporters at this week’s meeting stood in front of council to share their stories. The vice-president of Snowboard Yukon said Mount Sima is a “pillar” for a healthy lifestyle.  One youth said if the ski hill closes and you’re not into soccer or hockey, the only option left is alcohol or drugs.

In a Yukon News article today, city councilors seemed undecided on the issue.  Mike Gladish said he needs more facts, like membership numbers and current financial statements.  Betty Irwin thinks it’s unfair to give one society so much money, and not to others. Dave Stockdale threw out a curveball and suggested the society would gain credibility if its supporters donated their own money to keep the hill open.

What do you think? Should the city hand over the money? What will happen if  Mount Sima closes; will youth find new, healthy activities to replace zipping down the hill, or not? Could the city’s money be more useful somewhere else? What does downhill skiing mean to you? Is it a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon, or is it your raison d’etre – your reason for existence.  If you grew up with a pair of skis strapped to your feet, how has that shaped you into the person you are today?