Your Questions Answered: Investing in the Future of the San Angelo Coliseum
We understand you have questions about the upcoming bond election for the renovation of our San Angelo Coliseum.
Here are the real facts you need to make an informed decision:
Ownership and Control
Q: Will the City of San Angelo lose ownership of the Fairgrounds and Coliseum?
A: Absolutely not. The citizens of San Angelo will always own the Fairgrounds and Coliseum. This bond is an investment in our city’s assets, ensuring their long-term viability for our community.
Project Costs and Savings
Q: Why does the Coliseum need $41.6 million in repairs and upgrades?
A: Critical repairs and upgrades are needed to ensure the Coliseum remains a vibrant, usable venue for the next 50 years. This investment addresses aging infrastructure and modernizes the facility.
Q: Is renovating the Coliseum the most cost-effective option?
A: Yes. Independent studies show building a brand-new coliseum would cost over $300 million. Renovation saves San Angelo taxpayers an estimated $250 million while offering similar benefits.
Community Benefits
Q: How will the renovation benefit the community?
A: Improvements include:
- Doubled Seating Capacity: Expanding to over 10,000 seats to attract larger events.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with 56 handicapped and 60 support seats.
- More Amenities: Four elevators and over 60% more restrooms to improve visitor experience.
Q: Will the renovated Coliseum generate revenue for the City?
A: Yes. A $2 per seat revenue fee will return approximately $180,000 annually to the City, based on a 70% capacity rate—without additional City expenses.
Management and Operations
Q: Who is responsible for maintaining and operating the Coliseum?
A: The San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Association (SASSRA) will manage and maintain the facility, as they currently do with the Fairgrounds, under proven, successful lease guidelines.
Q: How does the current lease with SASSRA work?
A: SASSRA rents the Coliseum for about 30 days annually for the rodeo, paying approximately $110,000 each year.
Financial Commitment
Q: Has SASSRA already invested in this project?
A: Yes. SASSRA has invested over $1.4 million in engineering and construction planning—without any obligation from the City or taxpayers—making this a shovel-ready project.
Q: What if renovation costs exceed $41.6 million?
A: SASSRA has pledged to cover any cost overruns, ensuring no additional burden on taxpayers.
Addressing Misinformation
- Misconception: Only sponsor seating will move to the elevated area.
Fact: Anyone can purchase sponsor seating, depending on availability. - Misconception: Ticket prices will increase significantly.
Fact: With more seats available, ticket prices are expected to be more affordable for general admission. - Misconception: Group sales will be unavailable.
Fact: Group sales will be available for many events, determined on an event-by-event basis. - Fact: Season tickets will remain available. Contact SASSRA for details.
- Fact: The average homeowner with a $300,000 home would see an estimated $100 per year tax increase if the bond passes.
- Fact: SASSRA will fully cover an estimated $850,000/year in maintenance and operations costs.
- Fact: Without bond support, SASSRA has indicated they cannot manage a facility needing $41 million in repairs.
- Fact: SASSRA’s Foundation awards approximately $250,000 in scholarships annually. Excess funds from SASSRA’s zero-based budget are redirected to educational scholarships, not profits.
The Bottom Line
This renovation is a vital investment in San Angelo’s future. It will:
- Preserve a valuable community asset
- Boost our local economy
- Enhance the quality of life for all citizens