A proposed deal to sell the naming rights of the Thompson Regional Community Centre fell through when all the details could not be worked out in time for the grand opening that was held Sept. 7-8, Mayor Tim Johnston says.

”They withdrew from the discussions,” said Johnston, noting that the company had been hoping the announcement of the deal would take place during the grand opening. “I’m disappointed that we were unable to get this deal done.”

The city administration and the company had negotiated a tentative agreement, which would have awarded the naming rights in exchange for a previous contribution and covering the costs to erect or alter inside and outside signs. There was also the possibility of the company making a future capital investment in the community centre.

A resolution to create a contract for the naming rights was passed at a special meeting of city council on Aug. 27 but amendments made required that the contract – with full terms and the name of the purchaser – be brought back to council for final approval. This made it uncertain as to whether the deal could be completed by the grand opening, which resulted in the company withdrawing its offer to purchase the rights.

“They withdrew base don the resolution that was to go forward,” says Johnston. “I’m hopeful that at some point in the near future we can revisit it.”