As the city continues to grapple with another tight budget, parks officials are turning to advertising to make up some of the difference.

The city council just approved a new corporate sponsorship policy for the Parks and Recreation Department.

“This new policy provides our department with guidelines and procedures to find major corporate sponsors for programs, activities and facilities, including naming rights,” Parks Director Lynn Sordel told us.  “Any sponsorships we might create will always be reviewed and ultimately approved by city council.”

The move comes after the city was forced to cut or scale back some popular programs last year due to budget cuts.

“Historically we have had numerous sponsors and partners that have graciously contributed to events and programs.  This new policy is definitely a bigger step,” Sordel added.

Three types of sponsorships will be available. A program sponsorship would pay for a specific citywide program. A capital sponsorship would go towards the development of a part or recreational facility. Event sponsorships will also be offered.

Corporate sponsorships would not be permitted f they could compromise “visual integrity” or a program or facility.

Political organizations or companies that primarily sell alcohol, tobacco, firearms or pornography would not be allowed.