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Council approves Legends Global to manage convention and civic facilities under multi-year contract
Summary
Council authorized a full-service management contract with Legends Global for the Knoxville Convention Center, World's Fair Exhibition Hall, and Civic Auditorium and Coliseum, with an annual fee up to $905,000 plus CPI adjustments and potential five- to 15-year term with renewals; council discussed booking policy, legacy events and RFP process.
The Knoxville City Council approved a contract with Legends Global to provide full-service management of the Knoxville Convention Center, World's Fair Exhibition Hall, and Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum at an annual cost up to $905,000 plus CPI adjustments.
Mary Bogart, representing Legends Global, described operational plans including extending the booking window from 14 to 18 months, continued coordination with Visit Knoxville, and monthly meetings with city administrators to maximize facility usage and economic impact. Bogart said the existing facility operations team will remain in place and that “legacy events” such as Fantasy of Trees and the Dogwood Ham and Garden Show will continue to be honored.
Councilmembers asked about term length and procurement: city staff confirmed a five-year initial term with two optional one-year renewals (potentially 7 years depending on count; the record shows discussion of up to two renewals). Councilmember Honeycutt noted the RFP and selection process and praised staff for securing perceived best value.
Council approved the measure by voice vote. The administration and facility operator will coordinate to honor long-standing community events while pursuing conferences and other large bookings that drive economic impact.
