I had the pleasure of being on hand for the start of what I hope will be more photo ops and fundraising announcements for the new recreation facilities.
On Monday, the Gibsons Area Community Centre Society (GACCS) received a cheque for $100,000 from the Sunshine Coast Credit Union.
The funds represent the start of GACCS fundraising efforts and, in the process, a new sponsorship challenge among businesses on the Coast, spearheaded by the Sunshine Coast Credit Union.
This is an amazing start to the fundraising campaign. The Credit Union should be commended for stepping up to the plate and providing this first financial contribution.
I figure the Credit Union donation is just the start of more recreation funds pouring in.
It's no secret how I feel about recreation and these new facilities.
I've been a huge advocate for recreation right from the start. When the referendum was passed last June, I was thrilled with the prospects of a new arena in Gibsons and a new pool in Sechelt.
Government and community groups like GACCS have been working hard since last June to get a budget in place and finalize the design.
During that time, costs have gone up. Construction is booming in this province, and as a result, materials will cost more, labour will cost more and, ultimately, both facilities will now cost more too.
That's where GACCS comes in. More announcements are expected in the coming weeks on their plans and how the rest of the business community on the Coast can get involved and follow the strong leadership the Credit Union has already shown.
The idea of arena sponsorship has also been broached. So far, the response from government has been lukewarm. I think we need to change that thought process.
Some company or commercial enterprise sponsors every major sports arena and stadium in North America. It's the sign of the times.
While I can see government's point about branding their new community centre, what would be wrong with the Credit Union Community Centre in Gibsons. How about the Howe Sound Pulp and Paper Centre, maybe the Tim Hortons Centre or Telus Centre in Gibsons? There are probably many major corporate citizens here on the Coast that would love to have their names attached to the new community centre.
We have to start thinking outside the box and come up with a fundraising plan that makes sense, while keeping the costs under control and, ultimately, not costing the taxpayers an arm and a leg.
I'm probably not suggesting anything new here. Who knows, GACCS might already have these types of things in mind, but it certainly is food for thought!
