SASKATOON — Duck Lake Mayor Jason Anderson is optimistic about the bold move to seek a business or corporate partner to rename the town He believes it is a huge step that could put them on the map and result in economic gains for its residents.
The rebranding idea has sparked conversation across the province, with Duck Lake residents caught by surprise. However, Anderson believes his constituents and other people would understand the reasoning behind it.
“Lots of them are shocked right now. But when they see what we could do with the extra funds without raising taxes, they would see the potential. No matter how much you have, you could always use more. When it comes to municipalities, you’re limited,” Anderson told SaskToday.
“If we can have someone else’s money to help fund our projects, why not? It’s worth the discussion. Changing a name might take some work, but if it means fixing our roads, improving our facilities, and keeping taxes stable, it’s still cheaper for everyone in the long run.”
The Town Council announced a proposal to sell the naming rights for their community on Thursday. They are seeking a business partner that would help rewrite their future while also honouring the historic significance.
The Council decided after their meeting on Oct. 22. companies have until March 31, 2026, to submit their bids. All submissions will be openly discussed at a public meeting in early April, where Anderson assured they will be transparent and allow residents to see all offers and discuss their viability collectively.
“It was my idea, actually. Before I decided to run for mayor, I read about one of the largest stadium-naming rights deals in the US. I thought, ‘Why couldn’t we do something similar here?’” the mayor said.
He added that the idea began as a way to generate revenues for local facilities such as the community hall and skating rink. However, he realized that naming rights for the entire town could attract even more interest and attract millions of dollars in new investment.
Duck Lake, like any other small farming town in rural Saskatchewan, has limited revenue streams, and the rising cost of living adds to the financial strain on its residents. According to the 2021 census, the town has 579 residents.
Anderson said that a town like theirs relies on government federal or provincial grants, fees and taxes, which often are not enough to cover significant expenses such as infrastructure improvements, equipment purchases and other major projects. He added that, despite its size, Duck Lake remains determined to find new and sustainable ways to thrive, and that large purchases, such as heavy machinery, can quickly deplete municipal funds, making a corporate partner increasingly attractive.
“If we can have somebody else’s money come in and fund some of our projects, why not? It’s not just about selling a name. We’re looking for a partner — someone who shares our community’s values and respect for our history,” the mayor said.
Anderson emphasized that even if no company steps forward, business as usual will continue in their town. If a partner does emerge, the revenue could fund infrastructure upgrades, community programs, and local development, all without increasing the financial burden on residents.
Duck Lake is a historic site of the first battle of the 1885 North-West Rebellion and remains a proud Métis community. Anderson said, preserving that heritage will be central to any future agreement.
