Elected officials unanimously decided to approve administration’s recommendation to purchase promotional drawstring backpacks for the upcoming archery competition.
The Elkridge Archery Club will be hosting the 2018 Canadian Indoor 3D Archery Championships in Sundre at the end of April, said chief administrative officer Linda Nelson during a special meeting held March 28.
“This is a major event for the town,” she told council, adding upwards of 400 archers — plus friends, family and spectators — are expected to come to town.
The municipality has, from an administrative perspective, supported the event and Nelson requested that council consider approving the purchase of the blue promotional bags that feature Sundre’s logo as well as a mention of the www.exploresundre.com marketing web page.
Council was presented with two options — 420 drawstring backpacks at a cost of $2 a unit plus shipping for an estimated total upwards of $1,100; or 1,000 bags at lower unit cost of about $1.81 plus shipping for an approximate expense of upwards of $2,100, to be covered by unallocated reserves under economic development.
Any leftover packs would eventually be distributed during future trade shows to promote Sundre, said Nelson.
Coun. Charlene Preston, who supported the idea, wondered where the quotes were obtained, and told administration she was aware of a company that could provide the packs for $1.19 each.
“Perhaps we can get those dollars down a little bit?” the councillor asked.
Nelson said administration could certainly explore other options in an effort to lower the cost.
Coun. Richard Warnock supported the recommended motion to purchase 1,000 bags because having spare promotional material for trade shows is beneficial for the municipality’s marketing efforts, and that overall, “it’s a small cost.”
Council proceeded to unanimously carry the motion with the understanding that the packs will be sourced from the most affordable option.
