07-01-2003Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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r(8~.l~33. r '...u:1: 4 9: 15 a.m. EVENT CENTER UPDATE - Matt Shonsey and Doyle Hulme volunteer Co- Chairs of the Heartland Events Center Capital Campaign were present. They wanted to up-date the County Board on the progress of the campaign. Mr. Shonsey stated he would like to thank the community for the financial commitments they have made to the Heartland Events Center. This is a joint venture of many different entities. This new facility will provide a multi-purpose facility that will serve over 500,000 people. To date they have received $29.3 million toward the goal of $35 million to complete the construction and equip the facility. That is 84% of their goal. Mr. Shonsey stated they have received the following: . Two commitments of $7 million plus . Four commitments of $1 million plus . Nine commitments of $200,000 plus . And almost 600 commitments from $10.00 to $49,999 . The motel lodging tax has provided $450,000 toward capital construction and future funds will be used toward the operation. . The Hall County Livestock Improvement Association is making an in-kind gift of $10 million in land, parking and conversion of existing space He stated that they are now entering the final phase of the campaign. The are starting a push to go over the goal in the next 10 months. They are looking at four new areas: . First they at looking at individuals and businesses in the area who have not contributed . Second, they are looking at the current contributors who might consider increasing their commitment . Third, they are looking to area, regional and some national foundations that would be willing to join . And fourth, they are looking at new areas of funding that may invest in Hall County, the County and State and Federal governmental entities They are asking the Hall County Board to consider an investment in the Heartland Events Center of $1 million over the next five years. Lancaster thanked Mr. Shonsey for the presentation Arnold questioned if they have gone to the general public and if they had considered requesting the public to sponsor a seat. Mr. Shonsey stated that in the next 10 months they will be putting together an organized effort to reach their goal. Arnold stated that board members have discussed the county's participation but they have not discussed it as a group. Eriksen also stated that discussion has been held on a couple of avenues that the county could use. Rye also stated that the board has discussed this issue and the board needs time to work through the process. Lancaster stated that the county has not started the budget sessions and they have not allocated the keno funds yet. This project will be an asset to the community. 2