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Commission OKs 3‑year draft lease with RGV Pro Soccer, sets conditions on insurance, EIN and sponsorships
Summary
The commission authorized staff to finalize a three‑year lease with RGV Pro Soccer for Harding and Field facilities, with conditions requiring insurance, legal entity formation and sponsorship negotiations including a potential Visit Harlingen jersey placement.
The Harlingen City Commission authorized a draft three‑year lease agreement on Jan. 15 with RGV Pro Soccer Project Organization for use of the fields and facilities at Harding and Field parks.
Parks Director Javier Mendez summarized the draft: the city proposed a $1,000 monthly fee limited to months the team occupies the facility (May–August), and the lessee would operate concessions and retain ticket revenue. The commission and staff discussed substituting monetary rent for in‑kind promotional value; commissioners suggested negotiating sponsorship value (for example, a prominent Visit Harlingen logo on team jerseys and other promotional placements) in lieu of or in addition to rent.
Commissioners required the organizer to establish a legal entity (EIN/LLC) and show appropriate insurance coverage before an agreement is finalized; the commission also directed staff and the city manager to negotiate sponsorship terms and hotel‑promotion language to boost tourism. Parks staff agreed to provide cost estimates for facility maintenance, utilities, lighting and related expenses for the months of planned use so the commission can assess breakeven and long‑term maintenance implications.
The motion to approve was conditioned on legal review and the city manager leading negotiations over the sponsorship and operational terms; the measure passed by voice vote.
