The City of Moose Jaw and Yara Belle Plaine Inc. have inked a new deal to ensure the fertilizer producer’s name continues to adorn the Yara Centre building for another decade.
During its Nov. 28 regular meeting, city council voted unanimously to approve the naming rights agreement between both parties for a term of 10 years, commencing Jan. 1, 2023 and ending Dec. 31, 2032. Council also authorized the mayor and city clerk to sign the agreement on behalf of the municipality.
An official signing ceremony will occur on Thursday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m. at the building.
The new agreement will see Yara Belle Plaine contribute $50,000 annually — for a total of $500,000 — during the next decade as it has done during the past 10 years.
The Moose Jaw Downtown and Soccer/Fieldhouse Facilities Inc. entered into a naming rights agreement with the fertilizer company for the recreation venue in December 2012.
“We thank them for being such a great corporate citizen,” said city manager Jim Puffalt. “As we know, the facility is a tremendous one, and we are very glad — and I believe that Yara Belle Plain is glad — that their name is on the facility.”
Coun. Heather Eby thanked the company for believing in the building 10 years ago when no one really knew what the venue would bring to the community.
“It was sort of the afterthought along with the Multiplex, and it has turned out to be a wonderful addition to our city,” she added. “And I think that (it has had) the best rate of return of any of our public recreation facilities.”
It is incredible that Yara Belle Plaine committed its support for another decade considering the current uncertain economic times, said Coun. Crystal Froese.
“That facility has really evolved and grown,” she added. “And it’s become such an important asset to the health and wellness of our citizens.”
The next regular council meeting is Monday, Dec. 12.
