Progressive Auto Sales has been awarded the naming rights for the Sarnia Sports and Entertainment Centre.
However, what the arena will be called may still be up for discussion.
City staff told council Monday the dealership wasn't stuck on the name "Progressive Auto Sales Arena" but definitely wanted to make sure the public understood who is sponsoring the building.
Councillor Anne-Marie Gillis says whatever name comes out, we will get used to it.
"People will call it what they will until we get use to the name, but I think it's a very good thing and a very good deal for the city," she said.
As part of the agreement, reached between Progressive, the city and the Sarnia Sting, Progressive Auto Sales gets exclusive naming rights for the SSEC for an annual fee of $42,500, split between the city and the Sting, plus a minimum $40,000 signage commitment.
The city says the 10-year agreement, with interest, is valued at just over $430,000.
"I believe that the due diligence has been done in analyzing the options," said Councillor Mike Kelch.
"I do recall that when we were first talking about this, we didn't have any takers at all. So this is a nice situation to be in and actually I'm ok with the name as-is. If you put "Sales Centre" on there, maybe people are going to go there thinking they can buy a car or something."
The deal includes 12 season tickets and a free suite.
Advertising by competing automotive dealerships will still be allowed within the facility with specific limitations, but not on the exterior of the building.
The Sting's current advertising agreements with direct competitors will be honoured until expiry and there is some provision for special events involving other auto dealerships.
