Council here likes the idea of advertising on the rink boards at the PMD arena, but the subject of who should benefit is not as cut and dried.
Last month, the Drayton Icemen senior A hockey club asked the township’s parks, culture and and recreation committee for permission to sell advertising on the boards to help cover the team’s costs.
Icemen officials proposed six advertising signs, each measuring four by eight feet, to be installed and maintained by the club. The committee approved the idea in principal, asked the Icemen to present a business plan on installation and cost, and sent the matter to council for consideration.
On June 9, Finance Director Mike Givens said it is up to council to decide who should be the beneficiary of advertising revenue in the township-owned arena.
Councillor Bruce Whale said his only concern is what work would be done to ensure the signs do not change the bounce off the boards, which could affect games. He added he would be willing to try the arrangement – under which 100% of proceeds would go to the Icemen – for one year – to see how it works.
Councillor Mike Downey said given the investment involved, he assumes the team would want the ads up longer than just a year.
Councillor Jim Curry said it is worth pursuing the idea and he would like to work with the Icemen. He noted if the township or the Mapleton arena expansion (MAX) committee wants to do further advertising on the rink boards there should be lots of room left to do so.
Mayor John Green warned councillors about their responses, saying the township would have to give the same answer to all other teams – including ball and soccer teams – who may want to profit from signs. He also wondered exactly what the promised “business plan” from the Icemen would entail.
Downey replied his understanding is the report will include some solicitation of potential advertisers.
Whale said the bottom line is selling ads on the boards is a great idea, but council needs more information before proceeding.
Green agreed and asked staff to look into the matter. Council unanimously approved the recommendation from the parks, culture and recreation committee.
