The most significant topic was the proposal for a new sports facility. The director presented a plans for a 100,000 square foot indoor venue on county-owned land, emphasizing its potential economic impact of over $37 million annually. The facility would include 73,000 square feet of column-free space to host various events such as basketball and volleyball tournaments, expos, and special events. The presentation underscored the need for more indoor sports venues to meet local demand and proposed partnerships with educational institutions to ensure community benefits. Traffic management and funding challenges were also discussed, with the director noting the importance of strategic financial backing from the Tourist Development Council and the County Board of Commissioners. The director suggested that a professional management company might be considered to oversee operations, a common practice for similar facilities.

Council members raised questions about the potential operational deficits and long-term sustainability of the facility. The director acknowledged that new facilities often face operational deficits initially but expressed confidence in the venue’s ability to attract events and generate revenue over time. The discussion included exploring various operational models and the possibility of subsidies to maintain the facility’s functions.

Another topic was the financial and operational considerations surrounding the Bay Center renovation project. A representative outlined a $30 million proposal to enhance the center’s capacity and operational efficiency. Proposed upgrades included increasing seating capacity from 6,800 to 8,600, improving rigging and food service, and adding premium seating options. The representative emphasized that these enhancements would make the facility more competitive and attract major concerts and events. The total renovation budget was set at $43 million, with $30 million requested from the county through the Tourist Development Council. The representative noted that significant improvements to the acoustics and sound system would require additional funding.

The council also discussed a $90 million bonding plan to fund the new sports facility and the Bay Center renovations. The proposed repayment structure involved using the first two pennies of the Tourist Development Tax (TDT) for the Bay Center and the fifth penny for the sports facility. Concerns about operational deficits and the financial implications of the bonding plan were raised, with members emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of expected operational expenses.

In addition to the sports facility and Bay Center discussions, the council considered the acquisition of the SS United States as an artificial reef. Public comments highlighted the economic and ecological benefits of artificial reefs. Eileen Beard, a member of the Escambia County Marine Advisory Committee, cited the success of the Ariskany project, which boosted local tourism and media attention. Captain Andy Ross, a local dive charter operator, supported the project, noting that it would enhance Pensacola’s status as a dive destination. Brady Hill, founder of Ocean Strike Team, described the SS United States as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” and emphasized its potential to attract diving tourists.

The meeting also included discussions about the financial success of local tourism, with notable increases in revenue from approximately $4.5 to $5 million to around $22 to $23 million. The chair acknowledged the hard work of county staff in achieving this growth.

Due to time constraints and the loss of quorum, the council decided to schedule a special meeting to further discuss the sports facility and Bay Center projects. The chair expressed regret for any disappointment caused by the incomplete agenda and assured attendees that the topics would be revisited in the special meeting.