County Discusses Potential for Naming Rights Sponsorships at Expo Center

Saline County Commissioners discussed the potential for naming rights sponsorships at the Expo Center during their November 19th meeting. The topic arose during an update from David Flaherty, the Livestock and Expo Director.

Commissioner Bob Vidricksen inquired about the status of selling naming rights for barns or meeting rooms at the Expo Center, an idea he had suggested a few years ago during the renovation of the grounds. Flaherty responded that they had tried reaching out to some entities but faced challenges with city regulations regarding signage on buildings.

County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes clarified that while it's not impossible to implement naming rights, there is a process to work through. He mentioned that the county has adopted a policy for donations and Flaherty has been actively soliciting sponsors. However, they have not yet found a title sponsor for the livestock and Expo Center.

Smith-Hanes also noted that depending on whether the sponsor is a for-profit entity or an association, the process could vary. He confirmed that they have been working with the city and recently received approval for some on-site signage.

Commissioners expressed interest in establishing guidelines for naming rights, including potential dollar amounts and time frames. Smith-Hanes suggested that ultimately, the decision on pricing would be up to the commission. He mentioned that naming rights typically have an associated time period, using sports stadiums as an example.

The commission requested more information on potential pricing structures for naming rights. They also discussed the possibility of approaching potential sponsors to gauge interest and determine appropriate pricing.

No final decisions were made regarding naming rights sponsorships at the Expo Center during this meeting.