Council approves MOU sending Thalia Mara Hall operations to convention center commission and Visit Jackson amid debate over costs

The Jackson City Council voted 5-2 on Aug. 26 to authorize a memorandum of understanding giving the Capital City Convention Center Commission and Visit Jackson responsibility for operation and management of Thalia Mara Hall. The mayor said the convention center staff has reduced operating losses and could apply that expertise to the historic theater.The administration’s rationale and proposed costs: Mayor John Horn said the convention center commission reduced prior deficits at city-owned facilities and that partnering with Visit Jackson would help market and operate the theater. The mayor summarized planned capital work—elevator replacement, escalator removal and stairwell additions, asbestos mitigation, and bathroom and plumbing repairs—and said some capital work will be paid from the recently discussed bond proceeds. He said short-term fixes and two additional elevators were planned for spring, with further improvements completed by year-end.Timing and cost details: Council members asked about first-year operating costs, management fees and who pays utilities. City attorneys and the interim CFO explained the drafted arrangement anticipated an initial city appropriation in the first year that included a $150,000 management fee and approximately $200,000 identified as start-up/operating funds. Utilities for the first year were estimated at about $240,000; beginning in year two the convention center would assume more operational responsibility. The mayor’s office said site repairs and most capital work would come from the bond program approved earlier in the meeting.Council debate and vote: Some members urged caution and asked for more time to review the agreement, noting they received late drafts just before the meeting. Others argued rapid action was needed so the theater would not languish further. After discussion, the council approved the MOU with a 5-2 vote.Officials’ next steps: The administration said final details still needed work and that additional drafts were expected; the convention center commission and Visit Jackson will begin operations and the city will monitor revenues and operating costs under the MOU.