Event center manager says sign sponsorships, pricing tweaks needed to close Hill Country Youth Event Center shortfall

Managers of the Hill Country Youth Event Center told the Kerr County commissioners court Monday that the venue has operated with recurring losses and that recent cost increases—particularly a 41% rise in the facility management fee over two years—have worsened the gap between revenue and expenses.

The event center representative (Event Center staff) told the court the county pays Global Spectrum a flat management fee to operate the facility and that cost increases since 2020 largely reflect consumer price index adjustments and higher supplier contracts. He said the center has four full‑time employees and that the FY2025 operating request covers salaries and overhead.

“Has the revenue side kept up with the adjustment? No,” the manager said, adding the center expects to pursue sponsorship sales tied to a new electronic sign and to evaluate raising beverage pricing. He said the sign and sponsorship program is intended to offset increasing maintenance and management costs.

Commissioners questioned the center’s rental policy and the number of community groups that receive free or subsidized use, including 4‑H and FFA, which benefit from the facility’s mission as a community resource. One commissioner asked for a “revenue‑loss” analysis that quantifies how much the county forgoes by not charging market rates to nonprofits and community events; center staff agreed to prepare that sheet.

Staff noted several capital needs — roof work and ramp repairs — and that some costs are being pursued through ARPA and other one‑time funding. Commissioners asked for clearer revenue projections tied to any sponsorship or pricing changes before approving additional operating funds.

No formal action was taken Monday; the court asked staff to return with a revenue‑loss analysis and a sponsorship plan showing projected income from a new sign and any recommended pricing changes.