The financial affairs of a citizens' group established to boost London's image are being taken over by a city agency.

But those who started Ambassador London say its association with the London Economic Development Corp. -- which will oversee the volunteer organization's spending -- won't change the grassroots nature of the group.

"It's just a place where the dollars will be drawn from," Perry Ferguson, Ambassador London's founding chair-person, said of the LEDC's role.

"It's still the (Ambassador) steering committee that's directing things."

The LEDC board is expected to approve the new responsibility at a meeting Monday. Peter White, its executive director, said he considers an official partnership a good fit.

At first, it was hoped the London Convention Centre would hold the purse strings, but its structure doesn't allow it to do so. The LEDC, however, can accept funds on behalf of another group.

"We certainly aren't taking over Ambassador London in any stretch," White said. "This is just the financial oversight and the bookkeeping side."

Council approved $100,000 in its budget to keep the volunteer-run booster group running this year. The money won't be handed over until Ambassador London is in a formal agreement with the LEDC.

Though he understands the need for spending oversight, Michael Crowley, who has taken over as Ambassador chairperson from Ferguson, said he's certain there won't be any problems.

"The last thing anybody's going to do is be irresponsible," he said. "As a city we do need alignment across all our agencies so we're singing from the same song sheet."

Ambassador London launched in November at an event that drew 3,000 people. But the group's momentum didn't last long.

During the city's budget deliberations, some councillors grilled the volunteers behind it over the lack of a business plan and clear mandate. Ultimately, the group was given $100,000.

The next Ambassador event is at the Rotary Gardens June 26, when the public can hear about the group's plans, Crowley said.

Patrick Maloney is a Free Press reporter.

E-MAIL: Patrick Maloney