TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager
TITLE: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of North Port, Florida, Amending and Restating the Citywide Sponsorship Policy Herein Known as the Sponsorship Policy for City Events, Activities, Programs, and Designated Public Spaces; Providing for Incorporation of Recitals; Providing for Conflicts; Providing for Severability; and Providing an Effective Date.
Recommended Action
Approve Resolution No. 2026-R-10 as presented.
City Commission Options
Option 1: Approve Resolution No. 2026-R-10 as presented.
• Pros:
o Implements the City Commission’s direction from the February 2, 2026, City Commission Workshop to update the Citywide Sponsorship Policy and return with a formal Resolution.
o Provides a consistent, modernized and policy driven framework for accepting sponsorships.
o Promotes transparency and fairness.
o Enhances revenue and partnership opportunities.
o Aligns sponsorship benefits more proportionally with contributions, reducing reliance on tax dollars, and supporting transparent, accountable practices.
• Cons:
o Sponsors accustomed to the previous structure may be hesitant about adjusted pricing or revised benefits.
o Additional marketing and outreach will be needed to successfully implement the new structure.
Option 2: Deny Resolution No. 2026-R-10.
• Pros:
o Allows for the existing Citywide Sponsorship Policy approved as part of Resolution 2019-R-05 to remain in effect.
o Avoids potential uncertainty from partners that concerned changes could disrupt existing sponsor relationships or expectations.
o Avoids the need for expanded marketing and outreach efforts.
• Cons:
o Leaves Resolution No. 2019-R-05 in place and does not align with City Commission’s direction from the February 2, 2026, City Commission Workshop.
o Delays improvements intended to better match sponsorship values and structures with current operations and growth.
o Missed opportunity for improved revenue models and cost recovery.
Background Information
The following provides a chronological order of events regarding the City’s Sponsorship Policy:
Ø June 26, 2018: During the City Commission Regular Meeting, staff presented information on establishing a Citywide Sponsorship Policy. The goal was to create a formal structure for businesses and organizations to partner with the City by providing financial support and event enhancements. In return, sponsors would receive benefits such as promotional exposure and increased visibility.
Ø May 2, 2019: During the City Commission Special Meeting, staff presented the proposed Citywide Sponsorship Policy to the Commission which was included in Resolution No. 2019-R-05. After the presentation, the Commission adopted Resolution No. 2019-R-05.
Ø February 2, 2026: At the City Commission Workshop, there was consensus by the Commission to “direct the City Manager to update the Citywide Sponsorship Policy considering new or additional ways of enhancing the value of the presenting sponsor and to bring back a Resolution for Commission review.”
Staff have prepared Resolution No. 2026-R-10 and amended the Citywide Sponsorship Policy incorporating the discussed revisions, including adjustments to cost alignment, renewal timelines, and payment windows. Additionally, presenting sponsorship benefits have been adjusted and enhanced to better reflect the level of investment and to offer increased value and visibility for sponsors.
Resolution No. 2026-R-10 has been reviewed by the City Attorney and is legally correct as to form.
Resolution No. 2026-R-10 was provided to the City Clerk’s Office on April 10, 2026, for signatures, subject to City Commission approval.
Strategic Plan Pillar
Quality of Life
Good Governance
Financial Impact
The proposed updates associated with Resolution No. 2026-R-10 are intended to better align sponsorship values with a portion of direct costs; improve competitiveness; increase revenue opportunities; and offset general fund expenses. The Citywide Sponsorship Policy also supports more consistent financial management by outlining the payment timelines; in-kind valuation; and procedures for processing contributions in accordance with City financial standards.
Procurement
Not applicable.
Attachments:
1. Resolution No. 2026-R-10
2. Sponsorship Policy
3. Redline Sponsorship Policy
4. Sponsorship Application
5. Resolution No. 2019-R-05
6. February 2, 2026 Presentation
7. February 2, 2026 Minutes
8. May 2, 2019 Minutes
9. June 26, 2018 Minutes
Prepared by: Rachael Payne, Business Services Coordinator
Department Director: Sandy Pfundheller, Parks & Recreation Director