County officials discuss rising costs for Hill Country Youth Event Center operations

During the Kerr County Commissioners Court Budget Workshop held on June 2, 2025, significant discussions emerged regarding the financial management of the Hill Country Youth Event Center, particularly concerning the rising operational costs and the implications of not charging for certain events.

A key point of contention was the reported 41% increase in the management contract with Global Spectrum over the past two years. Commissioners expressed concerns about how this increase affects the county's budget, especially as the revenue generated from the facility has not kept pace with these rising costs. The management fee, which has been stable for several years, began to rise significantly after 2020 due to adjustments linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This has raised questions about the sustainability of the current financial model, particularly as the county continues to provide the venue for free or at reduced rates for various community events.

Commissioners highlighted the need for transparency regarding the financial impact of these decisions. One suggestion was to create a revenue loss sheet that quantifies the potential income from events that are currently not charged, particularly for nonprofit organizations and youth events. This data could provide a clearer picture of the financial implications of the county's current policies and help guide future decisions.

The discussion also touched on the staffing costs associated with the facility, which include four full-time employees. These salaries are part of the overall budget request of $395,000 for the upcoming fiscal year. The court acknowledged the importance of maintaining support for youth programs while also recognizing the need for a balanced budget.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus on the importance of evaluating the financial strategies surrounding the event center. The court aims to ensure that while community support remains a priority, the financial health of the facility is also safeguarded. Moving forward, the commissioners will consider the proposed revenue loss analysis to better understand the economic impact of their current policies and make informed decisions about future operations.