The Town of Ponoka is interested in becoming a sponsor of the 2019 Canada Winter Games.

Council passed an amended motion last night to discuss the possibility with the Games organizers, acting on a recommendation from the town's economic development board.

The board is an advisory body and it urged council to seize the rare opportunity the Games present.

Coun. Teri Underhill is one of its members. She says that sponsoring the event would send a message to other corporate sponsors that Ponoka is open for business.

"Hey, come look at Ponoka. We've got some industrial land. We've got a good population. We have the benefit of the Centennial Centre. We have things happening in Ponoka," Underhill says.

"Come visit us and see what we've got to offer. People don't realize what a jewel Ponoka is and we as an economic development board are always looking for a way to showcase our community."

According to Underhill's original Notice of Motion, a bronze sponsorship would cost about $50,000 but could be paid over three years in cash or in kind. The dollar figure was removed from the amended motion as Underhill's intent behind it was strictly to express interest.

She says the Games can offer a package that is tailored to the needs of municipalities who want in.

Sarah Olson, board chair, says the town could capitalize on the opportunity through various festivities, like the torch relay or perhaps an appearance by an Olympian.

"There are different public relations and promotional aspects to that, that would help garner attention on Ponoka and help build the brand," Olson says.