Selling sponsorships of city of Lawrence amenities makes financial sense and, if implemented properly, could benefit the city in the long run.

The city has drafted a potential sponsorship policy that will be discussed at a public meeting today.

The policy essentially would allow the city to solicit donations from residents and businesses in exchange for naming rights on Parks and Recreation Department programs and facilities — recreation centers, swimming pools, golf courses and even parks.

City Manager Tom Markus said sponsorships could help fund operating and maintenance costs, such as replacing playground equipment, exercise machines or gym floors, that cities don’t always keep in mind when they build facilities. Sponsorship funds could support one-time programs or go toward pay for specific items such as scoreboards or gym floors.

The draft policy makes clear that the city retains the rights to the facilities and places limits on the program regarding advertising and messaging. For example, the policy states that sponsorship recognition messages may identify the sponsor or product but should not promote or endorse the sponsor or its products or services. The policy prevents “statements that advocate, contain price information or an indication of associate savings or value, request a response, or contain comparative or qualitative descriptions of products, services, or organization.”

The Parks and Recreation Department maintains 54 parks, a citywide trail system, four recreation centers, two aquatic centers, a nature center, a golf course, and offers hundreds of programs, classes and camps annually. The city would decide which are appropriate for sponsorship and at what level. According to the draft policy, sponsorships of $25,000 or more per year would require City Commission approval. Sponsorships of $15,000 to $25,000 would require city manager approval and sponsorships below $15,000 would require only department director approval.

The draft requires that donations must be for a specific facility or service, essentially avoiding unattached donations. The draft also states that the city won’t seek or accept sponsors that take positions inconsistent with city policies or positions, and that a sponsorship doesn’t constitute an endorsement by the city.

The policy is not without detractors. Mayor Leslie Soden has expressed concerns about signage and potential conflicts of interest. Commissioner Mike Amyx is opposed to selling naming rights to parks. But assuming those issues can be addressed, there is taxpayer benefit to a reasonable sponsorship program and it is an idea that warrants support.