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Stride Bank Center aims to cut next year’s subsidy, pursue bigger multi‑day events
Summary
The Stride Bank Center’s manager told commissioners the venue is trending toward a smaller subsidy—about $8,600 projected—and is shifting focus to higher‑revenue multi‑day sports and conference events, sponsorship growth and phased capital upkeep.
Kevin Fristy of the Oakwood group briefed commissioners on the Stride Bank Center’s proposed FY2026–27 budget and a multi‑year capital and revenue strategy.
“We are looking to decrease our subsidy from this fiscal year into next year,” Fristy said, describing a projection that would reduce the center’s annual subsidy to the low‑thousands (presented as about $8,600). He outlined revenue drivers: ticketed events, ancillary revenue from catered events and meetings, and an active push for more sponsorship dollars.
Fristy said utilization on weekdays and the convention side is strong while arena weekday utilization is under 40 percent; the center will target multi‑day sports tournaments and larger cheer/varsity events that produce several overnight hotel stays. Capital needs identified for coming years include phased bleacher maintenance, rekeying buildings, AV and security upgrades, and periodic structural work on bleachers.
Commissioners praised improving operations and food services; one commissioner noted the center’s subsidy had been in the millions a few years ago and said the current trend is a major improvement. No vote was taken; the budget sections will appear on the regular agenda for formal consideration.
