Sports Facility Gets A Name

Posted on 7/9/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
Greater Vernon's newest sports facility now has a name -- but it could change in the future. The fields and running track next to Okanagan College will be called 'Greater Vernon Athletics Park,' as approved today by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. Director Doug Dirk says it will be the interim name. "The opportunity is to have the naming rights available to business or sponsors and I think through our experience at Kal Tire Place that's a very possible and viable option." Dirk says the board should look at all forms of income for the facility which was budgeted at 7.5 million dollars, but will cost well over 8 million dollars once completed later this summer. GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham says the name reflects that local residents are footing the bill for the venue. "But on the other hand, I think our taxpayers might appreciate the opportunity to gain some revenue if we were to find other sponsors that will attach their name to the facility." Certain parts of the facility -- like the running track or the fields --could also sponsored. Director Bob Spiers likes that they left the option open to rename it. "It's a good idea we can get more money and reduce the costs to the taxpayer." The complex is expected to open for public use later this month, with a grand opening likely in September.