Building a new stadium in Regina needs to happen sooner than later because sticking with Mosaic Stadium isn’t an option, according to Saskatchewan Roughriders CEO Jim Hopson.

The City of Regina is awaiting a decision on $230 million in funding from the provincial government. It has requested a decision by the end of the month.

“We should know something within the next few weeks whether the province is going to get behind it. I am concerned that if not now, when and where we’ll go from here because we’ve had years of debate already and very little action,” said Hopson.

Hopson is relieved the funding proposal received unanimous support from councillors at Wednesday's executive council. But, he stresses they need to hear something before this fall's civic election or the stadium could be delayed even more.

“We expect something as early as June and with civic elections this fall, I think it’s important we do hear something by mid-summer by the latest or it could get pushed even further back.”

Steven Mazurak, the Riders’ vice president, told a Winnipeg newspaper that Mosaic Stadium isn't up to the standard needed.

“Our stadium is the only thing holding us back. Winnipeg could definitely surpass us,” Mazurak was quoted as saying to Metro Winnipeg for story about a lottery being launched by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Hopson also says Mosaic Stadium continues to hold the franchise back.

“It’s our goal to be an elite franchise. Clearly right now our facility would not be up to what others have or will have," said Hopson.

"The fans are great and will continue to be, but I think we deserve better.”

Edited by CJME's Karen Brownlee.