Orillia seeks public input on commercializing city spaces

The City of Orillia is inviting residents and business owners to help shape the future of public spaces as it explores ways to generate new revenue and enhance city services through potential commercialization efforts.

“The City is looking at innovative ways to maximize the use of public spaces while supporting the delivery of valued programs and services,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “Community feedback is essential in guiding how and where commercial opportunities and naming rights sponsorships may be considered.”

Have Your Say Before July 11
A public survey is now live at orillia.ca/HaveYourSay, where residents can share their thoughts on sponsorships, naming rights, and the introduction of commercial services at municipal facilities. Paper copies of the survey are also available at the Orillia Public Library and Orillia City Centre. The deadline to respond is July 11, 2025.

Opportunities for Businesses and Organizations
Alongside the public survey, the City has issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) from businesses and organizations interested in:

• Sponsoring naming rights for select municipal facilities
• Leasing space at high-traffic public locations to offer food, recreation, or retail services

Facilities available for naming rights sponsorship include the Orillia Recreation Centre, Brian Orser Arena, West Orillia Sports Complex, and the Orillia Opera House, among others.

Commercial leasing options are available at several key locations, including Couchiching Beach Park, J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park, and the Orillia Public Library.

Deadline for Expressions of Interest: July 7, 2025
All submissions received through the REOI process will be used to inform a future report to City Council. That report may include policy changes, revenue projections, and implementation plans for consideration.

For more information, visit orillia.ca.