Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Expo Management topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Oak View Group pitches management and marketing to boost Saline County Expo Center
Summary
Oak View Group told the Saline County Commission it can bring event, sponsorship and food-and-beverage expertise to the Expo Center, arguing that synergies across nearby venues could increase revenue and reduce waste; commissioners asked for a feasibility proposal and cost estimates.
Oak View Group representatives presented their pitch to the Saline County Commission at its July 28 study session, saying the company could manage the county’s Expo Center and expand bookings, sponsorship sales and food-and-beverage operations.
Rick Hans, senior vice president for Oak View Group, said the firm manages nearly 300 venues nationwide and can leverage existing staff and sponsorship teams to grow events. “We’re interested because we’re neighbors, and we we think we can make a difference,” Hans said. He described a phased approach: an initial overview and feasibility study, followed by a proposal and, if the county agrees, a formal management agreement.
County staff and commissioners pressed Oak View Group on competition with nearby venues and community priorities. Hans responded that programming decisions remain driven by event demand: “If the show says… we fit better here, we’re not gonna force them,” he said, adding that Oak View would follow county direction on pricing and community use. Commissioners asked for follow‑up: a feasibility study with clear cost estimates for upgrades (electrical, bathrooms, catering capacity) and an itemized proposal showing how a management fee and incentives would be structured.
Next steps: staff will solicit upgrade estimates for the Expo Center and continue conversations with Oak View Group about a feasibility study and proposed management terms.
