09-01-04 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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eonvnilt.E.E c.R42o't of tf7,E .�P¢ onnt and 9inanaz eommittEz of tf cSoutL 1`3 eouneir is repeat business, adding that it was significant to change the airport's name from"Michiana" to "South Bend"Regional. He noted that the Chamber's new theme is "It's South Bend, It's Notre Dame and a whole lot more". Council Member Puzzello inquired about partnerships with Notre Dame, and was advised that there is alot of cooperation with regard to promoting the area with the university. Council Member Dieter inquired about the security needs and the management fee related to the Hall of Fame, and specifically asked for a breakdown of the$50,000. Mr. Hedman stated that they take care of the Hall's interior and exterior groundskeeping, boiler maintenance, etc.;but none of the Hall's programming. Council Member Pfeifer suggested that they look into trying to host the regional and national neighborhood associations. She also inquired about the cafe in the Century Center. Mr. Hedman stated that the cafe is not run daily but is open during conventions. Dr. Varner noted that last year the projected deficit focused on the increased costs for health care. He inquired how the deficit will be addressed. Mr. Hedman stated that they are looking at lower salary increases. They are also looking at a structural study for the conventional hall, noting that conventions are booked 2, 3, and 4 years in advance. Their focus is on conventions. Local businesses book with a 6-month lead-in typically. This year they will have 64 wedding receptions, which is the most ever. They also have a kosher kitchen and have hosted a Tuesday Orthodox wedding. They are in contact with Hindus in Chicago and Detroit to open up a new market. They have lost much of the RV business since internet virtual tours have lessened the need for big conventions. Boats however are big business and they utilize the docks. Council Member Dieter inquired about the "Meet Me on the Island" series. Mr. Hedman stated that it is very profitable with the average being 2,000 people in attendance. Dr. Varner noted that the Century Center does not use property tax and asked Mr. Hedman about the amount of money brought into the community because of the Century Center. Mr. Hedman noted that approximately $38 million is generated, with 500 jobs being dependent on it in such areas as hotels, the service industry, the food industry. He noted that they used a factor of"2" in 2003 when calculating the effect. He stated that we are in an ideal location being in the middle of the Great Lakes region. They would like to expand. He stated that they do not want to be known as a"bingo house, a gun show house", etc. Council Member Kelly stated that they are doing a great job and that their maintenance is outstanding. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting of September 1,2004 Page 2