Summary#
Montréal city council awarded Hublot51 inc. a direct contract for artistic direction and production of the Jardin botanique’s summer 2026 program, “Les arts s’invitent au Jardin.” The existing concert program is not new; the contract covers its 2026 edition. City staff say the goal is to present music in the garden and attract visitors.
- Hublot51 will plan the program, work with artists, and produce and coordinate the concerts, including technical services and arranging the performance area.
- The contract lasts eight months and costs $166,713.75, taxes included.
- The program is scheduled to include eight concerts at the Jardin botanique on Sundays at 2 p.m., between July 5 and August 23, 2026.
- The city awarded the contract by direct agreement following a call for proposals. The materials do not state how many proposals were received.
What it means for you#
- Visitors: The decision funds the planned 2026 concerts at the Jardin botanique. It does not state admission prices.
- Hublot51 inc.: The company receives the eight-month contract to develop and produce the program.
- Taxpayers: The city centre will cover the full expense. The decision does not create a new tax or fee.
Money#
The contract is $166,713.75, taxes included; the net amount is $145,000 after a 100% tax rebate.
- The amount is budgeted within Espace pour la vie, under the Botanical Garden’s public programs division. All payments are to be made in 2026.
- City staff say the expense has no impact on the city’s financial framework. The city centre assumes the full cost.
What is unclear#
- The materials do not say how many proposals were received or explain the selection criteria.
- The concert lineup, admission prices, and detailed payment schedule are not stated in the decision.
Case for#
- City staff say Hublot51 has experience producing outdoor music events, understands the garden’s needs, and has delivered earlier editions of the program.
- The contract covers both artistic planning and production, which could help coordinate the artists, technical work, and concert setup.
Case against#
- The materials do not report how many proposals were considered or provide selection criteria, making it hard to assess the basis for choosing Hublot51.
- The decision commits $166,713.75 for the program but does not state admission prices or how many people are expected to attend.