The Nation Municipality has approved a contract with KB Media Corp. to manage advertising and sponsorships for its « Nation on Ice » fundraising campaign, following a recommendation that was adopted without discussion at the council meeting on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024.
Acting Recreation Director Justin Lafrance’s report highlighted the inefficiencies faced by the Recreation Department when managing these tasks internally, including concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the administrative burden. Outsourcing to KB Media Corp. is expected to streamline the process and improve outcomes, with KB Media retaining 10 per cent of the generated revenue, while the remaining 90 per cent will go to the municipality. The municipality anticipates that KB Media’s professional expertise and broader network will result in increased overall revenue, despite the fee.
This three-year contract aligns with The Nation’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which supports partnerships with private companies to enhance operational efficiency and diversify revenue streams. KB Media will oversee sponsor outreach, promotional materials, and logistics, with all sponsorship agreements still requiring municipal approval.
The « Nation on Ice » campaign seeks to raise $500,000 to fund critical renovations at the St-Isidore Arena, which is a central hub for the community and home to local hockey teams like the St-Isidore Eagles. The renovation plans include replacing the rink’s cement floor and refrigeration system, along with updating the boards and glass to enhance safety. The total cost of the project is $1.4 million, with the municipality funding the remainder through reserves, grants, and sponsorships.
Scheduled to begin in 2025, the improvements are expected to extend the arena’s life by up to 45 years, ensuring a safe and vibrant space for recreational and competitive activities. Donors to the campaign can contribute at various levels, receiving benefits such as public recognition, sponsorship signage, and even naming rights for parts of the facility.
