Name change for Copps?

It seems there’s some truth to the rumours that Copps Coliseum may soon get a name change. And Friday night we learned the name of one company interested in buying the rights.

That company is First Ontario Credit Union who does have their head office in Hamilton and they have not commented officially about the bid. Now a bit of background on the naming rights issue. When Global Spectrum took over running Copps, they were granted the ability to seek new naming rights if they so desire. We know that they have approached council and there will be a public debate on January 15th. I have reached out to the Copps family but they did not give comment, and I talked with Ward 2 Councillor Jason Farr who said that he looks forward to the debate. And earlier Friday, I came down here and asked Hamiltonians what they thought of a possible “First Ontario Credit” Coliseum?

Anna D’Ambrosio: “God love them, but no, no, keep the old name. People know it, refer to it. Why change it.”

Dujon Williams: I guess the people of Hamilton won’t like it too much because it’s always been Copps Coliseum. And Copps Coliseum does sound cool so I’m kind of 50/50 on it.”

Margaret Pimentel: “It is a shame but that’s what they’re doing for everything. They’re even doing it for theatres as well right. So I think that just the way that the future is.”

Steve Smith: “No, Copps Coliseum all the way.”

We have learned that the name Copps will remain involved with this building in some form, but we don’t yet know what. In speaking with Councilor Farr he said in light of this possibility his office has seen a lot of support for former Mayor Victor Copps who the facility is names after. And so councilor Farr says that he will bring forward a motion next week that aims to have at least one other city asset named for Vic Copps.