Stones gig leaves Moncton black and blue

The City of Moncton lost more than $670,000 on the Rolling Stones concert because it underestimated the cost of everything from policing, medical services and parking to food and cleanup.

Moncton's director of community services Ian Fowler says the initial budget for the concert allowed for 60,000 concert goers. But more than 80,000 fans bought tickets.

"Not only did the increased crowds cause us additional expenses, they also related to less revenue in some areas," said Fowler. "So, we got hit on both sides, but we did learn, and we now have a site that I think we can strike better deals with."

In the end, the concert cost the city $1.2 million more than $670,000 over budget. Fowler told Moncton council Monday night he'll do better next time.

"Leading up to the show there was a sign on Front Mountain Road that said, 'Mick, when you leave, please take Ian Fowler with you.' Well, tonight there may be others that wish Ian Fowler had left with Mick."

Fowler says next time, he'll try to make a better deal with the promoter and he won't spend as much on parking.

Fowler says despite the loss, the concert was a financial success for the city. Moncton now owns $600,000 worth of special-events equipment and infrastructure for future concerts on Magnetic Hill. As well, he says people from out of town spent $15.3 million in Moncton during the Labour Day weekend show.

City councillors have forgiven Fowler and his team for missing the mark on the concert costs, but Brian Hicks says next time, there better not be a deficit. "We can justify this one. It was a learning experience but it really has to be a one-time unbudgeted expenditure. We've got to do a better job next time."