It Just Makes Sense campaign receives financial boost from city

The decision was made at Monday's City Council meeting, and the funds will come out of the Economic Development Budget, to go towards the development of the video and other materials for the presentation. The money is coming from another project that is no longer moving forward.

Part of the campaign includes a video showcasing the city, clips of residents and businesses saying the slogan, "It Just Makes Sense", and Mayor Lori Ackerman doing a Rick Mercer-style rant at the airport.

"This funding means we'll be able to produce a better quality video, as we can now hire local company Eagle Vision Video Productions to edit all the community submitted clips and film Mayor Ackerman's message," says Chamber of Commerce President Brent Hodson, who will be making the trip to Calgary. "I really think WestJet will be impressed with our presentation."

While the video is expected to cost around $5,000, City Manager Dianne Hunter says the $10,000 is just an estimate in order to cover everything, so that the committee doesn't have to come back to council again. Although it may seem like a lot of money for a presentation, Mayor Lori Ackerman argues it will pay off in the long run.

"When we did our strategic planning, economic development was a huge part and so was the airport," she says. "I think that personally, $10,000 is a small investment in bringing in another airline."

So far the response to the campaign has been positive, and Hodson says several communities have expressed jealousy over how catchy the slogan is. Over 20 videos have been submitted from local residents and businesses, and the deadline to take part is today. To take part in the project, submit your 5 – 10 second video clip or written comments to itjustmakessense@fortstjohn.ca.