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Proposal to allow sponsorship banners at Susiegray sports complex fails for lack of second
Summary
A proposal by Councilmember Joe Davis to permit parent-led youth leagues to sell sponsorship banners at the Susiegray M. McConnell Memorial Sports Complex died for lack of a second after staff noted the donor’s conditions; the City Manager said implementing signage could require returning a $1.25 million donation from Mr. McConnell.
Council considered a measure to authorize parent‑led youth leagues operating at the Susiegray M. McConnell Memorial Sports Complex to sell City‑approved sponsorship signage, with all revenue retained by the leagues, subject to content standards and City approval. The proposal estimated potential league revenue of up to about $20,000 per league per year.
City Manager Jon Rorie said the City has documentation from Mr. McConnell indicating that allowing signage at the complex would require returning his $1.25 million contribution because he did not want the memorial commercialized. "We have documentation from Mr. McConnell that says we can put up signage but we would have to return his $1.25 million contribution back to him," Rorie stated.
Councilmember Joe Davis moved to authorize league‑sold sponsorship signage across city sports facilities; his motion died for lack of a second. Councilmember Max Perreault and others expressed support for the leagues but emphasized the need to consult the Recreation Advisory Committee and the McConnell family or foundation before taking action. Councilmember Anthony Tyre asked to meet with leagues and the Recreation Advisory Committee; Council was invited to attend the RAC meeting scheduled for June 15.
Because of the donor documentation and council preference to consult leagues and the Recreation Advisory Committee, the Council did not adopt a policy authorizing sponsorship signage at the meeting.
