HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 LEPFA Minutes LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Donald J. Ristow called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the
Lansing Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Robert Lee, Cyril
McGuire, Kate McNeely, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Dennis Sykes, Robert Swanson and Denise
Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio).
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan- City of Lansing.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
CD
None. u ;
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF DECEMBER 16, 1997:
The minutes of December 16, 1997 stand approved as published. MOTION: (R, mrrnssio&r
Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner McGuire, motion carried. ;10 Cn
s-
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
Chair Ristow report as a member of the "Capital Professional Chef s and Cook's
Association" Chef Hadley of Fine Host was recently nominated as a finalist for the "Chef
of the Year" award. On Sunday, it was announced that he won the "Co-Chef of the Year"
award. Prior to coming to Lansing Chef Hadley was at the Tulsa Convention Center and
the El Paso Convention Center and has been instrumental in developing the Lansing Center
as a first class service provider. Chair Ristow extended congratulations to Chef Hadley.
Commissioner Butler noted since Chef Hadley has done such an outstanding job for the
Lansing Center, which brings a level of credibility to the Lansing Center, because as
people make decisions in reference to coming to the Center they think of the food and all
of the other amenities; he recommended that we show some level of gratitude to Chef for
the outstanding accomplishment.
At 7:35 a.m. Robert Lee and Dennis Sykes entered the meeting.
Chair Ristow requested management draft a resolution and request Chef Hadley to attend
the next meeting so that a presentation could be made.
LEFPA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
February 3, 1998
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending December 31, 1997. At 7;37
a.m. Bob Swanson entered the meeting.
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 1% or $190. Total
Building Rental decreased by 13% or $2,573 from last year. Total Operating Expense
increased by 73% or $35,885 over last year. Net Income (after the City contribution)
is $6,365 and Net Income (after depreciation) is $6,983. IRS coverage of expenses
is 34%, last month it was 40%, last year it was 56%. The current ratio is 4.01, last
month it was 3.28, and last year it was 4.96. Equity in Number of Days of Operation
is 116.07, last month it was 150.24 and last year it was 217.88. Actual Operating
Revenues are over budget by 2% or $616 and Actual Operating Expenses are over
budget by 3% or $2,333. Chair Sinadinos note under Operating Expenses -
Miscellaneous $4,850 is the fees paid for the PSD and stormwater.
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or $898; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 11% or $12,643;
Net Income (after City contribution) is ($11,327); and Net Income after depreciation
is $3,689. Sinadinos noted "Event Expenses" of$2,838 is in reference to the skating
and there were no event revenues for the month. Sinadinos noted subtracted from the
Restricted Assets - Event Development Fund was $36,688. The current ratio is 1.38,
last month it was 1.42. Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 257.80 and last
month it was 183.65.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 10% or $157,956.
Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 1% or $4,630, Total Operating Expense
increased by 16% or $284,108. Net Income (after City contribution) is $76,144 and
is $162,750 after depreciation. IRS coverage of expenses is 86%, 93% last month, and
90% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted Building Rental is down for the current period,
but is up slightly for year-to-date; Food and Beverage is down for the current period
but is up for year-to-date; and food and beverage expenses are down slightly. Labor
and Service are up for the current period and are up significantly for the year-to-date.
The current ratio is 1.82, it was 2.04 last month and was 1.65 last year. Equity in
Number of Days of Operation is 54.28, last month it was 66.45 and last year it was
49.72. Total Accounts Receivables are down about 10%, and Accounts Payable are
down about 20% and Advance Rents are up 12%. Operating Revenues are over budget
by 6% or $100,046 and Operating Expenses are under budget by 6% or $138,274.
Sinadinos noted Total Operating Income for the current period is under budget.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending December 31, 1997 be
received as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be
approved. MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner McGuire;
the motion carried.
EPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
February 3, 1998
2. Annual Budget: Peter reviewed the annual budget as follows.
a. Cover Page: This page summarizes the Lansing Center, Oldsmobile Park and the
Lansing City Market. Peter noted we anticipate for FYE 1999 generating revenues
close to $4.4 million for the Lansing Center while incurring expenses close to $5.15
million which would result in a City contribution of$515,000 for an approximate 9%
decrease as compared to the budget submitted last year. For Oldsmobile Park it is
anticipated that $220,000 will be incurred in expenses as compared to $205,000 in
1998 for a 10% increase which is associated with the expense of one full year for the
one full-time position of Box Office/Event Coordinator. Additional monies were also
budgeted for stagehands, service agreements, utilities, and part-time maintenance
personnel to perform major maintenance items per the TMO agreement. We project
we will present 31 non-baseball events comprising of about 61 days and will consist
of concerts, sporting events, receptions and community events. Lansing City Market
revenues are projected at around $69,999 with expenses at $166,000 resulting in a
City contribution of about$95,000 which is an estimated 5% decrease over last year.
The combined results amount to approximately 900 event days, attracting 500,000
people through the facilities that we manage for the City, for an economic impact of
approximately $7,000,000.
b. Proposed Salary Allocation Plan: This plan was a subject of the Chairman's Special
Task Force on Finances and was discussed during the budget process last year and is
a result of the City's allocation process. The issue is whether the time and salary of
many of our full-time staff, who work at Oldsmobile Park, be reflected in that
operation(salary, benefits, etc.)? An allocation of 5% of designated management staff
expenses is recommended and the five percent was devised by comparing total
Oldsmobile Park expenses for the fiscal year to total facility expenses for the year.
Peter noted it is the recommendation of the Finance Committee that the Board
approve this plan so we can forward it to the City. Peter referred to the notation
indicating that the allocation plan is not included in the budget currently being
recommended.
c. Oldsmobile Park Budget: Peter noted the City contribution has gone up slightly.
Under "salaries and wages" the amount is increased slightly due to additional
maintenance responsibilities as the building ages per the TMO agreement and for
increased use of stagehands at the Park. Utilities are budgeted higher after an analysis
of all the utilities for all three faculties and Peter noted we are dealing with the
Lugnuts regarding apportionment as it pertains to the TMO. Supplies and materials
have also been increased to fulfill our obligations per the TMO.
Peter reviewed a handout outlining non-baseball event projections for the upcoming
year, which will begin on July 1, 1998. He noted we are looking to add a
Contemporary Christian one-day festival and will continue Fiesta Del Verano and the
Country Music Festival/Classic Rock and Roll concerts. The Mayor's annual
symphony concert also will take place. Under "Sporting" Peter noted we are working
with MSU to increase their advertising of baseball and increase their ticket sales.
Michigan Run will not take place in 1999 due to their financial concerns.
Gateshows/Community Events will remain the same as well as receptions.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
February 3, 1998
Ice-skating will be reviewed and considered further for next year. Peter noted there
was an editorial this morning in the Lansing State Journal and despite their comments,
we are not using the taxpayers dollars. Peter noted that the success or failure of ice-
skating as an event will be a process and an example of the process is "Fright Night,"
the first year we lost some money but netted in excess of$5000 this year.
d. Lansing City Market: It is anticipated that we will generate $67,700 in Operating
Revenue, which will result in a City contribution of about $5,000 less. Peter noted
Marketing has been increased over 1997/98 for advertising.
e. Lansing Center: Operating Revenue is anticipated at $4.4 million and Operating
Expenses are anticipated to be about$5.15 million for a City contribution of$515,000
compared to $565,000 the prior year for a reduction of about $50,000. Building
Rental is anticipated at$1,253,000 and we will start the year with about $115,000 less
than last year in consumer shows because the Horse Show, the Boat Show, the RV
Show and Shipshewanna have moved to MSU's Ag Center. Food and Beverage is
increased by 5.7%, which is reasonable given the anticipated increase in events in
1999. Equipment Rental has been increased by about$45,000. Labor and Services
are increased due to Box Office/Crowd Control Department. Under "Expenses"
Salaries and Wages have been increased by 3.2% due to salary adjustments and Union
agreements. Leases appear to be out of sync, but the $50,000 is the amount as it
pertains to the City of Lansing contribution per the Operating Agreement. Bob
Swanson clarified that this amount is the figure that the former Authority paid as a rent
payment to the City of Lansing and is now delegated to the Capital Replacement Fund
per the Operating Agreement. Utilities have increased by $35,000 this year over the
prior year and we continue to analyze this issue with the Board of Water and Light.
Peter noted we are more stabilized within our departments and have filled positions.
Commissioner Janssen questioned the increase in regard to Oldsmobile Park budget
under "bonding." Peter noted this is because when the facility was turned over to us
we did not realized a full year's worth of insurance or bonding, the second year we
did and in addition, the fountain was added to our policy. Commissioner Janssen also
noted that the Lansing City Market from 96/97 to 97/98 appears to be flat, and as a
governing Board what is their responsibility, and where do we go from here as far as
what the City has charged us with in terms of the Market(as far as the Task Force is
concerned). Chair Ristow clarified that the Task Force was put together to review the
City Market, and their recommendations need to be carried out. Management has
been instructed to do anything and everything to make the Market a success. Ristow
noted we have a unique challenge and feels once the scenario plays out, and if then the
numbers are still flat, we will have to revisit the issue. Commissioner Janssen asked
if we allocate any staff time to the City Market? Peter noted staff time is allocated and
the City Market and the Lansing Center funding is forwarded in one sum. Oldsmobile
Park is broken out separately.
Peter noted a considerable amount has been spent on advertising and promotions for
the Market for the past two years, which has helped the current vendors and as well
as the attracting of some new vendors. Commissioner Wootton noted that several long-
time vendors have left the market due to personal circumstances.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
February 3, 1998
Tad noted those members on the Board that are familiar with the Task Force and the
results are also familiar with the current rental structure. When we consider the
impact of a completely full Market, the deficit doesn't go down significantly if it is
full, and there is an economy to be achieved when we have a full market. It will then
self-generate itself, and there will possibly be less of a need for the advertising dollars
to be spent.
Commissioner Butler noted that initially he viewed the City Market as an investment,
we have decided to invest money into it and this had not been done for some time.
Now marketing needs to step back to see if there is a level of consistency and how
long it will remain at a level of activity. Once this is achieved Butler sees the Market
as an investment because nothing has been done in years, and the recommendations
were made based on the Task Force results. Butler noted these were the changes that
people wanted, i.e. changing the hours and that is what we are here for and hopefully
we can turn it around.
Denise Wootton noted that there are several maintenance items that need to be
addressed at the Market, and they are the leaky roof over the center hallway and the
re-doing of the bathrooms. Tad noted those items have been budgeted for the
upcoming fiscal year.
Commissioner McNenly noted that in the "Proposed Salary Allocation Plan" it is
noted that 40% of the staff spend some of their time at Oldsmobile Park. She
questioned what percentage of staff's time was spent there? Peter noted there is no
exact figure, but the amount was determined by the time of year and the events at the
Park. Time allocation is not done, as with organizations such as law firms.
Commissioner Swanson clarified that there are three separate budgets for three
separate facilities. The City contribution for the City Market and for the Lansing
Center is in essence a general fund subsidy to cover any shortfall between the
operating revenues and expenses and that this is typical of any city with a convention
center. Lansing budgets this subsidy with one figure for two entities and the situation
is different for Oldsmobile Park because there is no general fund subsidy. The City
provides the money out of stadium revenues to provide for the operating costs of the
facility and is transferred directly to LEPFA to cover the costs of operating the
stadium without any other events other than the Lugnut ballgames. Anything else is
totally separate and there is no City money involved. Oldsmobile Park does not have
taxpayer dollars involved because stadium revenues are paying for the operating costs
of the facility and the events like skating, concerts, etc. are separate. Swanson also
reviewed the budget process noting the Mayor will present his budget
recommendations to City Council in March for fiscal year 1999 and the budget
adopted by LEPFA will be input into that process. Swanson cautioned that does not
mean that LEPFA will get what has been requested. Swanson noted despite the
economy, Fiscal Year 1999 is going to be a difficult year for the City due to the
capping of property taxes as outlined in Proposal A in terms of the increase in assessed
value, which will result in property taxes increasing by less than 2%. The down side
of the good economy in terms of income tax is that the Lansing region has the lowest
unemployment that it has ever had and in terms of employment and overtime there is
little room for growth in income tax. Also there were early retirements from the State
which involved individuals who worked in Lansing and paid non-resident income tax.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
February 3, 1998
Other retirees lived and worked in the city so the city income tax revenues will be
impacted. State shared revenues were also changed by the Legislature so that all
growth and revenue sharing is paid on a per capita basis, which impacts all urban
areas and is in question. Swanson cautioned there is not a lot of room for growth and
whatever growth we have will be less than the increase requests.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the proposed 1998-1999 Annual Budgets for Oldsmobile
Park, the Lansing City Market and the Lansing Center be adopted as published.
SUPPORT: Commissioner McGuire, motion carried.
In addition, Chair Sinadinos moved that the proposed Salary Allocation Plan be
adopted as presented and published. SECOND: Commissioner Janssen, motion
carried. Chair Ristow extended his thanks and appreciation to management and staff
for their hard work, and to Mrs. Sinadinos and the Finance Committee. He
commended Michael Meyers for his work on the Board of Water and Light report as
well.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter reported the Facility Workers negotiations would begin soon. We are
still awaiting the stagehands proposal, and continue to work on filling the Tech Services
position.
2. Lansing City Market: Peter reported rental revenues and occupancy are down this month
by about 5-7%. The Market is moving positively as present vendors add new space and
new products. We continue to try to attract new vendors and recruitment efforts continue
with 70 direct mail brochures, which were mailed in January. Peter noted perspective
vendors actively being recruited are a fresh fish vendor and Michigan grown vegetable
vendor. One of the long-time vendors shared that they had one of the best Decembers in
their history and another vendor reported a 100% increase over last December. The
Vendor's Association and the Market Manager have been working on a proposed list of
special events for the Market including a "Spring Flower Blitz," "Neighborhoods in
Bloom" and "Be a Tourist In Your Own Town."
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported we have used funds from the "Capital Reserve Plan" to
tint the suite and the hallway windows in an effort to reduce the amount of heat that is
generated and to reduce utility bills. Peter noted that the Lugnuts have requested LEPFA
review a plan to increase the playground area (left field). They are looking to enlarge the
fenced area to increase the picnic area seating and to add a kids batting area. Peter noted
we are considering this, but we need make sure their plan is in line with what we can do.
He will continue to work with Bob Swanson and the various City entities on this issue.
Peter noted we also continue to work with Capital Consultants on a box office expansion
so we can have our own box office space.
Peter noted we are considering adding festivals at the Park in addition to the existing ones
and will host Fright Night again. He noted he would continue to update the Board.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 7
February 3, 1998
7. Lansing Center: The Lansing Center hosted 31 events in December, which equated
to 42 event days, with over 10,000 in attendance, equaling 400 room nights for an
economic impact of approximately $235,000. Compared to December 1996, the
numbers are down slightly but we are ahead of the budget. Peter noted through
marketing we have really pushed for more banquets during the month of December,
as well as bridal show events and have added one bridal show this year. December
CVB bid confirmations include the Michigan Agriculture MEGA Conference for
January, 1999; Michigan Association of Broadcasters annual conference for 1999 and
2000; Michigan Pork Producers have agreed to return for 1999 and 2000; Michigan
Congress of Parent Teacher Student Association State Convention in 2002 and
Michigan Science Teachers Association Annual Convention has booked for 2004,
2006 and 2008. Confirmed public shows include the J.Crew Sale in 1999 and the
Toughman Competition. December highlights include Oldsmobile's Nation Sales
Meeting conference with 400 people in attendance and Fest Eve on December 31.
New Year's Day we held the Mayor and City Council's inaugural ceremony, a teen
concert and the Boat Show move in. The Boat Show was a new show in Halls B and
C and attracted over 2500 people. Additional events include the Bridal Show,
Michigan Agri-Business Conference and Nursery and Landscape conference, which
is our largest tradeshow.
Peter extended his thanks to the Board members for moving the monthly Board
meeting back one week to allow staff to concentrate on the budget and to afford Peter
the opportunity to attend the Stadium Manager's Conference and Council on Urban
Economic Development conference.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE: Committee Chair James Butler noted he continues to meet
with Peter to discuss Personnel issues. We are still in the process of trying to staff several
open positions. Butler noted it appears that morale is high at this time and it does not
appear that there are any union issues at this time.
VII. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS•
Commissioner Butler questioned the status of the Performing Arts Center. Commissioner Sykes
noted a committee has been meeting regularly and 61 RFP's were sent out and as of yesterday a
total of 72 had been sent to meet additional requests. The RFP due date is February 13 and by
February 18 the proposals will be reviewed and ranked by the review team. A committee of five
will then complete face-to-face interviews with the five top ranking proposals on February 25. On
February 26 h the committee will forward a recommendation to the overall committee and they will
make a recommendation to the TIFA Board and the Mayor in early March. Sykes noted the
primary focus of the feasibility study is marketing to make sure we know what the market will bear
and the niche that this facility, if it were built, would fill. Sykes noted he has meet with Mr.
Wright from the Wharton Center and he will be one of the five people conducting the final
interviews. The consultant is considering the cost of 1500- 2500 seats and Mr. Wright was not
pleased with the 2500 seats. Sykes noted there was some initial confusion regarding the RFP, but
that ultimately the understanding is that the RFP is for a contractor to tell us whether this facility
is viable and to answer questions. Sykes noted we have many questions and we need a contractor
to come to our community and spend time looking at the sensitivities regarding this issue and how
we define success, how deep of a subsidy is reasonable and with a subsidy how do you define a
successful operation? Sykes noted Peter Sullivan is a member of this group.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 8
February 3, 1998
Commissioner Butler asked if we have any collaborative dialog going on with MSU in reference
to our competitive position, especially the Lansing Center and the Ag Center, in light of the fact
that the Ag Center was not discussed with LEPFA. Sykes noted he has discussed this with Webster
and Mayor Hollister has discussed this competition with Peter McPherson and McPherson feels
competition is a healthy. Sykes noted the issue discussed by Peter Sullivan today regarding the
booking of the RV Show at the Ag Center on the same day as the Lansing Center's RV Show does
not make sense for either entity. Discussions have ensued regarding the composition of a group
that would include MSU and the CVB to look at how to deal with groups in this region recognizing
that we are all looking for business. Chair Ristow questioned what impact the 1999 budgets could
have on the undertaking of the Performing Arts Center. Swanson indicated regional funding is
being considered, and as such, it would be outside the City budget. Sykes noted the feasibility
study would be completed in mid July.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
None.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 199 AT 7:30
A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
The Finance Committee will meet on Monday, February 23 at 4:30 p.m.
At 9:00 a.m. it was moved that the meeting be adjourned. MOTION: Commissioner McGuire SECOND:
Commissioner Sinadinos motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
_k6
Heidi K. Browlrjtecording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
FEBRUARY 24, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Donald J. Ristow called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the
Lansing Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Ellen Jeffries, Kate McNeely, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos,
Dennis Sykes (Ex-Officio), Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Robert Lee,
and Cyril McGuire,
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; and Jack Jordan - City of Lansing.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
Gr7 `f"f
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 3. 1998:
c- i +7)
The minutes of February 3, 1998 stand approved as published. C.)
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT: ra
Chairman Donald Ristow and Peter Sullivan, President and CEO, presented Fine Host-
Lansing Center Chef Ralph Hadley with a gold plate in recognition and honor of his "1997
Co-Chef of the Year Award" (as awarded by the Capital Chef's and Cook's Association) on
behalf of the Board of Commissioners, the management team and the entire staff.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending January 31, 1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 1% or
$430.Total Building Rental is less than last year by 10% or $2,333. Total Operating
Expense increased by 65% or $37,981 over last year. Net Income (after the City
contribution) is $3,142 and Net Income (after depreciation) is $3,870. IRS coverage
of expenses is 27%, last month it was 34%, and last year it was 51%. The current
ratio is 6.35, last month it was 4.01, and last year it was 9.19. Equity in Number of
Days of Operation is 111.91, last month it was 116.07 and last year it was 209.45.
Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 5% or $1,308 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 5% or $5,119. Expenses are up due to the timing of
the PSD and storm water fees and Operating Income is up as well.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
February 24, 1998
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or$898; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 17% or $26,282;
Net Income (after City contribution) is ($14,799); Net Income after depreciation is
$2,064. Sinadinos noted "Event Expenses" of$11,402 is in reference to the skating
and "Event Revenues" for the month were$7,496 (sponsorships for skating) for a loss
of($3,906) which is noted in the Restricted Assets - Event Development Fund which
is $44,594. Current ratio is 1.20, last month it was 1.38. Equity in Number of Days
of Operation is 169.23 and last month it was 257.80.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 9% or$178,629. Total
Building Rental is less than last year by (1%) or $1,073. Total Operating Expense
increased by 16% or $350,817. Net Income (after City contribution) is $130,327 and
is $231,103 after depreciation as of January 31, 1998. IRS coverage of expenses is
39%, 86% lust month, and 95% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted Building Rental is
down slightly for the current period as well as for year-to-date but is keeping in step
with last year; Food and Beverage is up for the current period as well as for year-to-
date, as are Tradeshow Utilities. Under "Expenses" Sinadinos noted Food and
Beverage is up for the current period and year-to-date although the net is ahead of
budget by $70,000. The current ratio is 1.91, it was 1.82 last month and was 1.88
last year. Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 57.37, last month it was 54.28
and last year it was 58.23. Total Restricted Assets are at $315,000. Advance Rents
are down slightly, but remain strong at$243,226. Operating Revenues are over budget
by 8% or $170,567 and Operating Expenses are under budget by 6% or $150,320.
Sinadinos noted Building Rental is up compared to budget for the current period and
for year-to-date as well. Food and Beverage is up for the current period and for
year-to-date. Salaries and Wages are up for the period due to three pay periods this
month.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending January 31, 1998 be
received as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be
approved. MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner McNenly;
the motion carried.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter reported the Facility Workers' contract expires soon and we will
endeavor to meet with them. At this time we are waiting for them to bring their issues
to the table for discussion.
2. Lansing City Market: Rental revenues are up by $460 this month compared to last
year and January occupancy increased by 8% over last January. Peter noted we
continue to move forward on a positive note as current vendors add space and new
products, and efforts continue to attract new vendors. The Market Manager continues
to discuss vendor opportunities with prospective vendors including Piedmontese Beef
and Michigan Grown Vegetables, Perennials and Herbs. Upcoming spring events
include the "Adopt a River" program on April 25, as well as seminars on caring for
cut flowers, growing herbs and Asian cooking. The second "Annual Spring Flower
Blitz" will be held in May and the "Neighborhoods in Bloom" project will once again
use the Market as the flower pick up site.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
February 24, 1998
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported we continue to work with the Lugnuts on operational
issues, and the season will start a week late this year (April 14) due to the weather and
the season will be extended by a week as well. The minor park changes include
extending the fence lines, and they are in the final stages of deciding whether or not
this will take place; the major concern is cost because the original estimates were not
correct, although it is about 95% certain that it will take place.
Peter noted he and Michael continue to work on a "request for proposal" for adding
a box office at Oldsmobile Park for LEPFA events at a cost of$15,000 - $20,000 and
it is hoped to be completed by June. The capital request should be submitted to the
Mayor's office and City Council as a "capital project" for approval.
Peter noted as a result of the suite renewal dinner in December, he and Mayor
Hollister continue to meet with those groups and individuals in an effort to have them
re-sign for an additional two (2) years. He noted these meetings are moving along and
those "founding eight" who contribute have been offered several amenities including
a plaque in front of the stadium, additional parking spaces, etc. and the letters and
invoices should go out this week.
Peter noted we continued to break down the skating rink and are working to get that
solidified prior to the start of the baseball season. We continue to work on sponsorship
dollars for the festivals, and we will continue to prepare the stadium for Opening Day
as we approach March and will continue through April and May.
4. Lansing Center: The Lansing Center hosted 42 events in January, which equated to
77 event days, with over 30,000 in attendance, equaling 1700 room nights for an
economic impact of approximately $600,000. During the month of January we had
one major CVB bid confirmation and that is the Diocese of Lansing 1998 Conference,
which is booked in the fall, with 2000 anticipated attendance and room rental of about
$21,000. Peter reported in regard to public events, we re-booked the Channel 10 Boat
Show for January 1999 and they are increasing the size of their show to three halls
(they had two halls this year). Other events include Bridal World 99 and Letts Bridal
Show both in January 1999. Highlights for the month include the Michigan Veterinary
Conference which was held in late January with over 500 attendees from throughout
the state; the Hawkfeathermeyer Wildlife Art Show had about 4000 people in
attendance; January 29 the "State of the State Rally" took place; early February we
hosted the Home Show which brought about 4000 people through the building;
February 5 and 6 the Michigan Pork Producers were in the building which is an
annual event; February 8 the Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet took place and from 11:00
a.m. through 4:00 p.m. with over 3000 people attending their show. February 8
through the 11 Midwest Reps will be in the building (this is a repeat event); and the
Deer and Turkey Spectacular was held in February (this is our largest public event)
with over 13,000 total attendance. We recently hosted the Heartland Travel Showcase
and this is their second and last year in our building. Peter noted we were able to
book Heartland Travel two and a half years ago, and it is a show operated by tour
operators and tourist site and attractions operators, as well as CVBs throughout the
Midwest. Their highlight this weekend was an appearance by Bob Eubanks, Peter
noted this was the first time they booked out of Ohio. Recently we hosted the Lugnut
Charities Baseball Gala.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
February 24, 1998
Currently we are in the midst of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters event. We
will be hosting a Debutante Ball on February 28, which was previously held at the
Holiday Inn South.
5. Performing Arts Center: Commissioner Dennis Sykes reported nine (9) proposals were
received on February 13 and they were from California, New York, and Michigan.
Sykes noted a committee meeting was held last week and a decision was made on three
proposals. Face-to-face interviews will take place tomorrow, and on Friday a
recommendation will be made as to who the consultant will be with a recommendation
to be made to the Mayor.
6. Union Update: Chair Ristow questioned if there is any thought on how negotiations
fnay go with the Union? Peter responded that it is hard to say at this point. Dirk
Spillemaekers has been out of the country, however it has been alluded to that they
will present a realistic proposal. Peter noted we will move forward as we have in the
past.
7. Computerization with the CVB: Peter reported we are working with the CVB to get
network our books with the CVB to allow them to look at our books. The process
should be completed in two weeks. Chair Ristow noted this project was started about
five or six years ago and it is an important aspect of working together with the
Bureau.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Heidi Brown reported as of Friday February 20 we have hired a Receptionist, Ramona
Owusu.
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS_:
None.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 1998 AT 7:30
A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:03 a.m. it was moved that the meeting be adjourned. MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND:
Commissioner Wootton, motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
MARCH 24, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Donald J. Ristow called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the
Lansing Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Cyril McGuire, Kate
McNenly, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Robert Lee and Dennis Sykes (Ex-Officio).
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; and Jack Jordan - City of Lansing.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None. 'i
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 1998:
The minutes of February 24, 1998 stand approved as published. ;7 E
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VI. REPORTS: o
w
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. Committee of the Whole Meeting - April 23, 1998: Chairman Ristow reminded the Board
members that the Committee of the Whole will meet at 3:00 p.m. to discuss LEPFA's budget.
Chairman Ristow asked Board members to attend should they have the opportunity and/or
should their schedules allow to show support. Chair Ristow noted Peter has requested that the
LEPFA budget be presented first because Peter is scheduled to leave town later that afternoon.
2. April and May Board Meeting Date Changes: Chair Ristow noted the April monthly Board
meeting will be moved to May 5 (Finance Committee is moved to May 4) so that Peter may
attend a conference. The May monthly meeting will be moved to Wednesday, May 27
(Finance Committee will meet on Tuesday, May 26) due to the Memorial Weekend holiday.
Chair Ristow thanked the Board for accommodating the above mentioned changes.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending February 28, 1998:
a. Lansing Cily Market: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 16% or$6,083.
Total Building Rental is less than last year by 8% or$1,966. Total Operating Expense
increased by 61% or$39,867 over last year. Net Income (after the city contribution)
is $2,456 and Net Income (after depreciation) is $3,282. IRS coverage of expenses
is 33%, last month it was 27%, and last year it was 60%. Chair Sinadinos noted that
under parking operating revenue the year-to-date amount is less because revenues
from the City of Lansing have not been received for the second quarter. Also
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
March 24, 1998
Marketing and utilities expenses are also higher compared to last year. The current
ratio is 5.90, last month it was 6.35, and last year it was 7.71. Equity in Number of
Days of Operation is 114.17, 111.91 last month and last year it was 242.30. Actual
Operating Revenues are over budget by 5% or$1,765 and Actual Operating Expenses
are under budget by 8% or $9,581.
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or$898; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 14% or $23,265;
Net Income (after City contribution) is ($20,144); Net Income after depreciation is
($1,549). Sinadinos noted Operating Expenses are over slightly for the current period
and year to date under the budget. Event Income loss of ($848) is reflected in the
Event Development Fund and Event Revenues are based on an adjustment. The
Current Ratio is 1.16; it was 1.20 last month. Equity in Number of Days of Operation
is 157.07 and last month it was 169.23.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 11% or $268,071.
Total Building Rental exceeds last year by less than 1% or $2,192. Total Operating
Expense increased by 14% or $363,786. Net Income (after City contribution) is
$268,829 and is$382,244 (after depreciation). IRS coverage of expenses is 94%, 89%
last month, and 97% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted Building Rental is up for the
current period, as well as for year-to-date. Food and Beverage is $323,986 for the
current period and are up as well as for year-to-date, as are Labor and Services. Total
Operating Income is at $519,533 compared to $430,091 for the current period last
year. The current ratio is 2.06, it was 1.91 last month and was 1.88 last year. Equity
in Number of Days of Operation is 67.18, last month it was 57.37 and last year it was
61.09. Total cash is $220,329; Total Restricted Assets are at $315,000. Advance
Rents are down slightly, Operating Revenues are over budget by 9% or $229,346 and
Operating Expenses are under budget by 5% or $159,269. Sinadinos noted Total
Operating Income is $519,533 up by $58,778. Salaries and Wages for year-to-date
are under budget as we are seeking to fill positions. Operating expenses and under
budget for the current period as well as year-to-date.
Commissioner James Butler questioned what the significant increase in food and
beverage is attributed to? Peter noted the increase is due to the volume and types of
events, and Peter indicated this would be clarified in his report. Peter attributed the
increase in part to the two large events held at the beginning of the fiscal year, the
Pentecostal Keralites and Oldsmobile. February was the second highest month for
Food and Beverage revenue (May 1997 was the highest).
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending February 28, 1998 be
received as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be
approved. MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner Butler; the
motion carried.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
March 24, 1998
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter reported we are still awaiting a proposal from the stagehands.
Tech Services negotiations are pending the filling of Michael Wright's position. Peter
noted the Facility and Maintenance workers' negotiations are under way with
Maintenance Workers and we are waiting for a proposal from the Facility Workers.
2. Lansing City Market: Rental revenues are up by $743 this month compared to last
year and February occupancy is at 44% and is 5-8% over February of last year. Peter
noted we continue to move forward on vendor recruitment and Aphelia has returned
to the Market after she had moved to East Lansing last year. The Piedmontese beef
proprietor has decided to lease space at the Market. Spring beautification of the
Market is underway with the upcoming planting of flowers, etc. Upcoming spring
events include the "Adopt a River" program on April 25, as well as the vendors'
second "Annual Spring Flower Blitz" on May 15 and 16. The "Neighborhoods in
Bloom" project will once again use the Market as the flower pick up site. Peter noted
six vendors participated in the Flower and Garden Show at the Lansing Center and he
indicated that this is a good example of a cooperative effort between LEPFA and the
vendors. On May 30 the Market will participate in the Convention/Visitors Bureau
"Be a Tourist in Your Own Town" and will serve free hotdogs to those with a
"passport."
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported we continue to work with the Lugnuts to prepare the
stadium for "Opening Day." Peter reminded Board members that the Michigan State
versus Indiana baseball games will be held on April 10, 11 and 12. Peter noted we
have met with MSU and they have scheduled a number of people to attend including
Merritt Norvell, Mayor Hollister, Sparty, the MSU Cheerleaders, and there will be
giveaways and cake. Peter noted the first MSU game will be free as it was last year.
Attendance will be dependent on the weather; however, we have been working with
the MSU Athletic Department on marketing efforts to increase attendance. Peter also
noted that through the cooperative efforts of Dennis Sykes and Bob Swanson on going
discussions such as free shuttle bus service for students has been discussed. Peter
noted overall individual discussions are positive and he will keep Board abreast of
items as they materialize.
April 14 is the Lugnuts' first game and there will be ceremonies associated with
"Opening Day." Peter noted the Lugnut's expansion of the outfield picnic area would
be completed by opening day, which will increase the fan participation area. Peter
noted LEPFA is also working on bids for the LEPFA box office and he will meet with
Bob Swanson to discuss this issue further. Upcoming events scheduled for Oldsmobile
Park include a contemporary Christian Festival for the first weekend in June, and this
Friday tickets will go on sale and there will be an ad in this week's "Whats On"
section. Peter noted we continue to work on the Country Music Fest and the July 4d'
Symphony event. Regarding ice skating at Oldsmobile Park, Peter reported we lost
$11,900 and we are within the budget guidelines, last year we lost $21,000. Peter
noted we were able to operate one day this year, and as such we are looking at ways
to better operationally sustain ice for next year.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
March 24, 1998
At 7:50 a.m. Jack Jordan entered the meeting.
4. Lansing Center: The Lansing Center hosted 44 events in February, which equated to
67 event days, with over 23,000 in attendance, equaling to 1120 room nights for an
economic impact of approximately $640,000. Peter noted in comparison of February,
1997 to February, 1998, we had more event days in 1998, building rent increased,
extra charges increased, banquet income was up $82,000, counter sales were up
$4000; however, attendance was 16,000 less, less room nights were used, and less of
an economic impact was noted. Peter noted this is a perfect example of the cyclical
nature of this business and how different types of events "yield" different amounts to
the convention center bottom line.
Two major CVB bids were received; one was for Diamond Quest in March 1999 and
Woverton, Inc. in February 1999. Public events booked in the month February
included the Channel 53 -ABC Kids Show in August 1998, Juve Aldaco will host a
Hispanic Music event on Sunday, April 19 featuring Bobby Pulido. A second concert
will be held on Mother's Day featuring the local group "Super Grupo Aldaco." Peter
noted the Spartan Shows have booked a meat and seafood show in April 1999 and
American Waterworks will meet here in 1999 and 2000. Highlights for the month
include the Lugnut Charities (this is a second year event) and attendance was around
225 people. On February 24 the Michigan Association of Broadcasters were in house
and they held a successful two-day event with 1000 people in attendance. S. Abraham
and Son was held on February 27 and 28 and their attendance was 2000 with Fran
Tarkenton as their guest speaker. February 28 a "Debutante Ball" was held for the
first time at the Lansing Center (it is their 35 year) with 800 guests in attendance.
Michigan Buggy Builders were in house with 3500 in attendance. On March 8
Diamond Quest was in the building with over 5000 people attending. Two ski/winter
events were in the building - Polaris with 6000 attendees and Articat. The third
annual Sport Travel and Fishing Show was in house with 180 exhibitors and 14,000
people attending and "Da Yoopers" were their entertainment.
Upcoming events include the Lansing and Flower Garden Show (their second show)
this weekend. Michigan Ground Water Works Association will be in house the later
part of March as well as the Michigan Plumbers and Mechanical contractors
association, Cristo Rey Community Center and the Michigan Antiquarian Book and
Paper Show.
5. Budget Hearings: Peter noted the City of Lansing budget hearings are scheduled for
April 23 and a notice has been sent to the Finance Committee members, and Peter will
be discussing our budget with members of City Council.
6. Leonard Roby's Death: Peter reported Leonard Roby, a facility worker passed away
last week. Leonard was a long-term employee at the Civic Arena and Lansing Center.
Flowers were sent on behalf of the LEPFA Board of Commissioners and the LEPFA
staff. He noted Leonard's death was sudden and unexpected and he is survived by a
son, daughter and ex-wife. Peter noted several staff members attended the funeral and
he spoke at the service.
LEPFA Management Staff Meeting
Page 5
March 24,1998
7. Performing Arts Feasibility Study: Peter reported the groups have been narrowed
down to three with one organization to be selected. The feasibility study opening
kickoff meeting is set for March 30 and will be a three to four month process. Peter
noted Dennis Sykes will continue to update the Board on any further developments.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler reported he continues to discuss issues with Peter Sullivan
as they develop. Chair Butler noted as indicated at the last meeting, that a Receptionist has
been hired and is working out well; however, staff is still attempting to fill the vacancy in the
Finance Department and interviews are scheduled this week. Chair Butler noted there was a
large staff and management turnout for Leonard Roby's funeral and it was very well received.
Mr. Butler noted that currently there are no union issues at this time that he is aware of. Chair
Butler thanked the Commissioners for their recognition of Chef Hadley at the last Board
meeting acknowledging the outstanding job he has done and he indicated that he was pleased
that this was done in recognition of Chef Hadley.
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
Commissioner Butler requested a list of the activities at the Lansing Center as referenced in Peter
Sullivan's report. Commissioner Butler noted over the years he has had the opportunity to review
the meeting notes, and also when he is unable to attend meetings he still receives documentation,
which is extremely beneficial. Commissioner Butler noted after reviewing the minutes he
understands exactly what has happened and commended Heidi for taking "copious notes."
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
None.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, MAY 5. 1998 AT 7:30 A.M.
AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:12 a.m. it was moved that the meeting be adjourned. MOTION: Commissioner McGuire SECOND:
Commissioner Sinadinos, motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
-r4-� �?�
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
MAY 5, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Donald J. Ristow called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the
Lansing Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Robert Lee, Kate
McNenly, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Cyril McGuire, Dennis Sykes (Ex-officio)
and Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio).
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan and Jim Smiertka - City of-Lansing.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA: u
There were no additional agenda items. -�
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT: 1 y
None.
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF MARCH 24 1998•
v�
The minutes of March 24, 1998 stand approved as published.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. Lansing Flower and Garden Show: Chairman Ristow complimented management on its
efforts to expand the City Market's presence, i.e. the 1998 Flower and Garden Show, noting
it was a great effort.
2. LEPFA's Budget: Chair Ristow noted the budget was smooth sailing and thanked the Board
for their efforts and he extended his gratitude for their support in the effort.
3. Oldsmobile Park Lawn: Chair Ristow commented on the green grass at Oldsmobile Park due
in part to the newly installed underground sprinkler system.
4. Financial News: Chair Ristow noted May was another$500,000 month, and he indicated that
Mrs. Sinadinos would report further under the Finance Committee report.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending March 31, 1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 11% or$4,623.
Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 5% or $1,436. Total Operating Expense
increased by 54% or $39,571 over last year. Net Income (after the city contribution)
as of March 31, 1998 is $13,089 and Net Income (after depreciation) is $14,024.
Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 42%, last month it was 33%, and last year
it was 56%.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
May 5, 1998
Chair Sinadinos noted building rental is up for the current period and year-to-date and
total operating income for year-to-date is up as well. Under Expenses, Utilities and
Marketing are up; otherwise everything is in line with the budget. The current ratio
is 8.31, last month it was 5.90, and last year it was 18.59. Our Equity in Number of
Days of Operation is 146.39; it was 114.17 last month and last year it was 246.55,
Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 10% or $4,265 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 12% or $15,851. Chair Sinadinos noted Total Operating
Income including Parking and Building Rental are up for the current period compared
to budget and Total Operating Expenses are under compared to budget for the current
period, as well as for year-to-date.
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or $898; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 16% or $30,040;
Net Income (after city contribution) is $3,538 as of March 31; Net Income after
depreciation is $24,560. Sinadinos noted there was no Revenue and Operating
Expenses_- Utilities are ahead of budget, otherwise all items are in line with the
budget. Event expenses were $85.17 and were subtracted from Event Development
Fund. The Current Ratio is 1.16 and was 1.20 last month. Equity in Number of Days
of Operation is 157.07 and last month it was 169.23.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 10% or $302,671.
Total Building Rental is less than last year by 1% or $9,640. Total Operating Expense
increased by 13% or $378,613. Net Income (after City contribution) is $336,820 and
is $464,338 (after depreciation). Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 96%, 94%
last month, and 98% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted Total Operating Income is up
due to the nature and types of events we have for the current period, she noted that
rental was down for the current period, however food and beverage was up
considerably for the current period, as well as year-to-date. Under Operating
Expenses, Salaries and Wages are up for the current period and year-to-date because
we are more fully staffed, but we are in line with the budget. With expenses taken
into account for Food and Beverage we have netted $82,000 ahead of last year's
figures. Our current ratio is 2.13, last month it was 2.06 and last year it was 2.01.
Our equity in number of days of Operation is 70.97, last month it was 67.18 and last
year it was 62.79. Total Restricted Assets are at$327,500. Accounts Receivable for
the current year are $393,000 of which $136,000 has been collected in April.
Advance Rents are down slightly due to the nature of the type of events booked, i.e.
more concerts and shows, which do not require advance rent deposits. Actual
Operating Revenues are over budget by 9% or $277,320 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 4% or $123,560. Sinadinos noted Building Rental
compared to budget is down slightly, Food and Beverage is up, and under Salaries and
Wages several positions remain vacant. Peter noted utilities are back in line as well.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending March 31, 1998 be received
as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be approved.
MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner Janssen, the motion
carried.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
May 5, 1998
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
l. Union Issues: Peter noted Dirk Spillemaekers is currently out of the country setting
up cooperative internship programs. Peter noted in regard to the Stagehands contract,
there is no news to report there and in regard to Tech Servcies we have previously
submitted proposals and there are no new developments. In regard to the Facility and
Maintenance Workers' we have received proposals from the Union and are reviewing
them. Peter indicated he will keep the Board updated of any further developments.
2. Lansing City Market: Rental revenue is up $880 compared to last March, and
occupancy is at 46-48%, which is about 10% over last March. In regard to
recruitment, we have recruited another vendor, Hess Health and Nutruition, which
will sell Watkins brand products. Peter noted the vendors have been working to have
more flowers, candies and homemade ice cream and other food items in the Market
this summer. Peter noted the "Market Beautification and Cleanup," continues as an
ongoing project and that the Market restrooms have been updated with new fixtures
and paint. As such, the groundwork has been laid for the Spring Beautification project
and the Market flowerbeds will be planted and maintained by the Market vendors and
it is hoped that weather permitting the annuals will be planted two weeks earlier this
year. Peter reported six Market Vendors displayed their products at the Flower and
Garden Show, which was very well received, and there was positive feedback. Peter
noted we will continue to look at this type of involvement on the part of the Market
vendors at various local shows including those at the Ag Center, as a positive tool to
help promote not only the vendors, but the City Market as well. Upcoming events
include the vendors' second "Annual Spring Flower Blitz" on May 15 and 16 and will
include how-to seminars sponsored by the vendors and will offer free cake, balloons,
etc. The Market will be the flower pick up site for the "Neighborhoods in Bloom"
project. On May 30 the Market will participate in the Convention/Visitors Bureau "Be
a Tourist in Your Own Town" and will serve free hotdogs to those with a "passport."
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported the park opened on April 10 with the MSU vs.
Indiana baseball game with a great deal of fan fair and including the Mayor, Merritt
Norvell, Debbie Stabenaw, Sparty, MSU cheerleaders, the pep band and cake for
1000. Peter reported admission to the game was free which helped attract 1500 people
to opening day. The Lugnuts opened their season on April 14 against the Michigan
Battlecats, and they have been enjoying good crowds as well. In his conversations with
Tom Dickson Peter reported that the per caps are up for this year compared to last
year. Peter reported he will meet with Tom this week regarding utilities, and he will
continue to update Board members regarding any further developments. Peter also
noted the left field picnic area has expanded and was completed by opening day; this
is an interactive picnic area for youth and is also considered a revenue enhancement.
Peter noted our box office expansion has been approved by City Council and
underway and will include three new windows to the existing box office space (one
window will be handicap accessible). It is hoped that the project will be completed in
June and that the ticket office will be a Ticketmaster outlet that will service the
community for events at regional facilities including the Palace, Pine Knob, the Breslin
Center, Joe Louis and Van Andel, which will focus people's attention on Oldsmobile
Park. Negotiations with Ticketmaster are on going.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
May 5, 1998
Upcoming events include Yes Fest on June 20 and 21, tickets went on sale in April.
This year one night will feature county music acts (John Michael Montgomery, Steve
Wariner, David Kersh and Mila Mason) and the next classic rock (Heart, Edgar
Winter and the Classic Rock All Stars). Tad noted general admission seats are$10 for
either night and the reserve seats are $20,after June 1 the prices will go up $5. Peter
noted we have been fortunate to receive a large sponsorship from L&L Food Centers,
which has allowed us to keep the ticket prices affordable. Peter noted we will have
rain insurance and are hopeful that the weather will cooperate, and hope for a positive
outcome financially. A Christian concert- Holywahooza will feature groups such as
Jars of Clay, Plumb, Jeff Moore and the Distance, all of which are national acts and
in addition a number of local acts on June 6. Peter noted Tad and the Marketing
Department have done a fantastic job in pulling a diverse group together and there is
a huge cross-section of people in the community that are involved in this event. Tad
indicated "Jars of Clay" is a Grammy award-winning group and the other groups are
Grammy and Dove award nominated. Tad further noted two local/regional bands will
open up for this event and were selected via a contest on "88.1 The Light." A panel
selected the two artists from the 73 tapes/CDs that were sent in, with the farthest tapes
being received from Kalamazoo and Detroit. Tad noted events like this are often a
stepping stone for contemporary Christian acts.
Peter indicated we will be hosting Fiesta Del Verano on July 11, the Symphony on
July 4, the Diamond Classic, Old Timers Baseball and monthly movies are also
planned. It will be a very busy and diverse summer and he noted he will continue to
update the Board as events develop.
4. Lansing Center: The Lansing Center hosted 46 events in February, which equated to
77 event days, with approximately 40,000 attendees, equaling 2500 room nights for
an economic impact of approximately $781,000. Last March we hosted 7 more
events, but had 8 less event days, with 8000 less people and room nights were up 605,
the economic impact was up, which is an indicator as to how the type of event can
influence profitability. For the third quarter there were 16 more event days, 8 more
events, and we were down in room nights.
Peter noted there were a number of major CVB bids for the month of March, which
includes Michigan Nursery Landscape Association, the annual Great Lakes Trade
Expo for the years 2000 through 2002. Mid-Michigan Antiquarian Book Sellers (2000
people) have booked for April 1999 and the fall of 1998 and 1999. Show Biz Talent
has confirmed for 1999 (2000 people). Michigan Association of Homes and Services
for the Aging Annual Convention/Tradeshow in 1999, Michigan Groundwater Annual
State Convention has booked for 2001 and 2002 (1000 people). Peter reported during
the month of March we created 61 bookings, and are looking at a Golf Show in
March, 1999 in conjunction with Convention Management Services and have come
to terms with them to host a golf show at the Lansing Center in addition to their show
in Novi. The Pentecostal Churches of Faith - the Michigan State Youth Convention
has booked for May, 1999; Ingham Regional Medical Center Employee banquet will
be held later this month. The Michigan Science Teachers Association Annual
Conference with 3500 people in attendance in 2004, 6, 8, and 10. The Optometric
Association (1000 attendance) will meet in 2001, 2002, 2003.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
May 5, 1998
Lansing Center Highlights include the Caesar Chavez Birthday dinner, which attracted
300 people. We hosted a comedy show featuring Rodney Carrington with 1000 people
over two shows in Hall B. Peter noted there were some sound issues, but overall the
event went well and this was a new type of event for the Lansing Center. Easter
Sunday 500 people attended the South Baptist Church and was held in the ballrooms.
April 19 we hosted a smaller Hispanic concert featuring Bobby Pulido, who is the
Tejano performer of the year and a Grammy Award winner. April 21 and 22 the
Michigan Safety Conference was held attracting over 6300 people over two days
generating $7,000 for the Center; Fine Host served over 5000 boxed lunches for this
event. Last weekend Show Biz Talent was in the building with 1500 dancers 5-18
years of age. April 25 the Michigan Association of Vocational Clubs of America was
in house and the Lansing Center was one of four sites for the high school competition
in masonry, construction, electrical wiring, and computer graphics was held on that
day. May 1 and 2 we hosted the Michigan Education Association and they used the
entire building for their event with 1000 people attending their event. Currently the
Lansing Center is the site for the Michigan Non-Profit Association Volunteerism Super
Conference; yesterday 1400 people attended a luncheon featuring Colin Powell as the
guest speaker and the Governor and State Senator Spencer Abraham spoke as well.
5. Budget Hearings: Peter expressed his and Chair Ristow's appreciation and thanks to
all the Board members who attended meetings with Peter and City Council members
prior to the budget hearings; as well as to Board members Ellen Jeffries, Denise
Wootton and Cyril McGuire, as well as Wes Clark of the City Market Vendor's
Association for attending the budget hearings with Peter. He indicated this
collaboration presented a unified front to City Council, as well as the Mayor's office.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler reported that we have been searching for a financial person
for some time, and have hired a "Staff Accountant" that will work in the Business Office. We
are in the process of hiring an Event Coordinator and that individual is scheduled to start next
Thursday. Chair Butler indicated that he is not aware of any union issues and he continues to
discuss personnel issues as they develop with Peter Sullivan on a real time basis. Chair Butler
noted that Peter has been very good about making him aware of any issues that might cause
LEPFA any type of exposure or concerns. Chair Butler noted he attended the "Volunteer
Super Conference" luncheon yesterday and based on his observations he was very impressed;
he noted there were 1400 attendees lined up to come in and the coordination was impressive.
Commissioner Butler noted he observed several management staff members handling the
crowd, addressing any type of incident that came up and that they did a super job.
Commissioner Butler reported the meals were served in a very orderly and timely manner and
many positive comments were noted. The Mayor was delighted and indicated this to
Commissioner Butler (he attended the morning breakfast and luncheon)and Debbie Stabenaw,
and City of East Lansing City Council members also noted as well how well the event was run
and the building managed. Chair Butler noted the compliments were very sincere and
unsolicited and he was not certain if they were aware of his affiliation, but he did hear the
comments and indicated that he was very impressed and felt very good to be a part of the
Lansing Center.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
May 5, 1998
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
Commissioner Butler thanked Peter for the list of the activities at the Lansing Center.
Commissioner Butler also thanked LEPFA and the different individuals that he has seen at
community wide events for their support, noting that our presence in the community is extremely
important. Chair Butler indicated a recent example was Peter and his wife's attendance at the
Greater Lansing Food Bank auction at the Radisson.
Chair Butler noted that LEPFA continues to express a level of compassion and concern for our
employees. He noted one of the employee's brother recently died and the Lansing Center
management and staff stepped up and supported the individual by showing a level of compassion
and concern while also trying to enhance and maintain a high level as morale as well. Chair Butler
commended staff for their efforts.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
None.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 1998 AT 7:30
A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:12 a.m. it was moved that the meeting be adjourned. MOTION: Commissioner Lee SECOND:
Commissioner McNenly, motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
Ammended May 27, 1998
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
MAY 27, 1998
r
j, 10 Pf�j
MINUTES
L<�r'��tt,fG Cl r'Y
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Donald J. Ristow called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of &(ERif
Lansing Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Kate McNenly, Donald
Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Dennis Sykes (Ex-Officio).
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Robert Lee, Cyril McGuire, and Denise
Wootton.
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan - City of Lansing.
HI. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF MAY 5, 1998:
Chairman Ristow noted two corrections to the minutes. The first noted is on page two, paragraph
"C" the figure $393,00 should read$393,000 and on page six, the next scheduled monthly meeting
should read "May 27." The minutes of May 5, 1998 stand approved as corrected.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. Nominating Committee: Chair Ristow noted he has appointed the Nominating Committee and
has asked Kate McNenly to serve as the Chairman and Commissioners Jeffries and McGuire
have also agreed to serve. Chair Ristow indicated if any Board member is interested in serving
as an Officer, that they contact any member of the Nominating Committee. The Nominating
Committee will submit their recommendations at the June 23 Board meeting.
2. Thank You Note: Chair Ristow read a thank you note received from Commissioner Cyril
McGuire. The note of thanks from Commissioner McGuire was for flowers received at home
due to his recent stay in the hospital. Chair Ristow noted Commissioner McGuire was not in
attendance at the last Board meeting due to a bout with pneumonia.
3. LEPFA's Annual Audit: Chair Ristow noted the annual audit of the Authority will commence
as of the close of business on June 30. The audit will take approximately six to seven weeks
and should conclude around the mid-August. As such, Chair Ristow cancelled the July
monthly board meeting and moved the August meeting ahead one week, to Tuesday, August
18 at 7:30 a.m. and the Finance Committee will meet on Monday, August 17. Chair Ristow
requested that management send a letter to all Board members outlining the changes. Chair
Ristow thanked the Board.
LEPPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
May 27, 1998
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending April 30, 1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year by 2% or$1,127
because the third quarter parking revenue has not been received (approximately
$7,000). Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 8% or $2,390. Total Operating
Expense increased by 48% or $39,506 over last year. Net Income (after the city
contribution) as of April 30, 1998 is $14,380 and Net Income as of April 30(after
depreciation) is $15,420. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 42%, last month
it was 42%, and last year it was 60%. Utilities are up compared to last year at this
time but are in line with budget. The current ratio is 6.51, last month it was 8.31,
and last year it was 4.19. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 153.41 up
from last month, which was 146.39, last year it was 271.29. Actual Operating
Revenues are over budget by 8% or $3,588 and Actual Operating Expenses are under
budget by 15% or $21,398. Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Income or Loss
compared to budget is ahead of budget by $24,895.
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or $898; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 15% or $30,178;
Net Income (after city contribution) is $1,161 as of April 30; Net Income after
depreciation is $24,532. Sinadinos noted the Event Revenues for the current period
in the amount of$11,309 is from MSU Baseball and Event Expenses of$4,070 for an
Event Income of$7,238 which has been added to the Event Development Fund. The
Current Ratio is 1.54 and was 1.40 last month. Equity in Number of Days of
Operation is 212.47 and last month it was 202.51. Chair Sinadinos noted the Total
Event Development Fund is $52,774. Unearned Revenue under Liabilities and Equity
is primarily sponsorship fees for events that have not taken place yet.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 4% or$157,226. Total
Building Rental is less than last year by 4% or $44,533. Total Operating Expense
increased by 12% or $425,199. Net Income (after City contribution) is $367,805 and
is $510,083 (after depreciation) as of April 30,1998. Internal Revenue coverage of
expenses is 97%, 96% last month, and 104% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted that last
year at this time we had an exceptional month by comparison. Sinadinos noted
building rental is down slightly as well as Food and Beverage. Trade Show utilities are
up for the current period and Labor Services are down. Utilities are up year to date
due to a warm April and use of air conditioning and Food and Beverage expenses are
up as well. Our current ratio is 2.29, compared to last month it was 2.13 and last year
it was 2.34. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 71.98, last month it was
70.97 and last year it was 81.79. Accounts Receivables are down compared to the
prior year and $192,000 of the Accounts Receivables have been collected during the
month of May. Advance Rents are down slightly due to the nature of the type of event
schedules. Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 7% or$245,119 and Actual
Operating Expenses are under budget by 3% or$133,926. Building Rental compared
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
May 27, 1998
to budget is down slightly. Food and Beverage is under slightly for the current period
but is ahead for year to date. Trade show utilities are up for the current period as well
as year to date and Labor Services are also up for both the current period and year to
date. Chair Sinadinos noted Total Operating Income actual for the year to date is
ahead of budget. Operating Expenses are under budget for year to date. Food and
Beverage net is ahead of the budget by $82,000.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending April 30, 1998 be received
as published, and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be approved.
MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner Janssen, the motion
carried.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter reported the Union has recently submitted their Stagehand
proposal, which is under review, and we will meet with them within the next several
weeks to discuss their proposal. In regard to Tech Services, we have had the
opportunity to sit down with three candidates and are looking to extend an offer. Peter
noted in regard to the Facility Workers, we continue to meet with their reps regarding
their proposal, which includes a 25% pay increase.
2. Lansing City Market: Rental revenue is up $883 compared to last April, and
occupancy is at 57%, which is about 9% over last year. In regard to recruitment, three
(3) potential vendors have been recruited. He noted the "Market Beautification and
Cleanup" continues and plants have been planted in the barrels near the entrances and
will be maintained by the Market vendors who will continue to plant for several more
weeks weather permitting. Peter reported the City Market will be the flower pick up
site for the "Neighborhoods in Bloom" project, which will benefit 81 neighborhoods
through the distribution of flowers. On May 30 the Market will participate in the
Convention/Visitors Bureau "Be a Tourist in Your Own Town" and will serve free
hotdogs to those with a "passport." We are also working on hosting a Strawberry
Festival in June. Peter reported we have teamed up with WLNS TV-6 on an
advertising partnership and have produced 30-second advertisements which are
currently aired and will continue to run for three weeks during each month through
August. There are also 10- second ads which will run three weeks each month through
April 1999. The partnership includes an agreement that their station will broadcast the
weather portion of their 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. news, live at the City Market
beginning tomorrow. Peter noted most of this is attributed to the efforts of Tad Carper
and the Marketing Department.
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported that the per cap spending at the Lugnuts games are
up, which is good from a revenue standpoint. He noted he met with Tom Dickson
regarding utilities, and while the meeting was cordial, they remain apart on key issues.
An alternative proposal has been developed and discussed with Bob Swanson and Peter
noted he envisioned meeting with Tom again later this week. Peter reported that the
box office expansion continues and it has taken more time to complete the demolition
on the outer wall and it is hoped that the project will be completed by June 6. The
scheduled line up includes June 6 for HolyWAHOOza! which is a contemporary
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
May 27, 1998
Christian Concert. June 20 and 21 Yes Fest is scheduled, July 4 is the Symphony
Concert with the Mayor, and July 11 Fiesta Del Verano will take place. The Diamond
Classic baseball event held two games at the Park and we were able to work with Dean
Shippey on presenting this event. Peter noted the finals or semi finals were not held
at Oldsmobile Park due to scheduling conflicts with the Lugnuts, however, we will try
to present them next year. The Monthly Movies will start in July with six (6) movies
planned. Local sponsorship of the monthly movies has been great and we anticipate
turning a profit. At this time the only uncontrollable issue appears to be the weather.
Peter noted the flowers in the flower garden have been planted in a design of the
capitol.
4. Lansing Center: The Lansing Center hosted 58 events in April, equating to 87 event
days, attracting over 22,000 attendees, equaling 2400 room nights for an economic
impact of approximately $750,000. In comparison to April, 1997 we were down
approximately two events, up by one event day, attendance was down by 18,000 and
room nights were down by about 355, while the economic impact was down about
$200,000. Peter noted while the numbers were down in comparison to last year, the
numbers are up in comparison to budget in the average month to date. Also, April,
1997 was the best month in the history of the building.
The CVB bid confirmations for April include: the Christian Believers United -Women
of the World Conference which will attract an estimate 3500 people in September,
1998 and the Michigan Road Builders Association Annual Conference in 2000 with
an estimated attendance of 500.
Peter noted in the last month 68 bookings were created by the Sales Department and
bookings of interest include Michigan State University's "Taste of Blackness" which
is a mini "Black Expo" and is an event that has taken place at MSU in the past but
they have outgrown MSU. Through the efforts of the Marketing and Sales Department
they will be coming to the Lansing Center in April, 1999 and we are working out the
final details. AAA of Michigan has booked in August, 1998 and the Blue Cross Blue
Shield Board of Directors meeting will take place in June, 1999. Bids submitted to the
CVB include the Michigan Republican State Convention in February 1999. Lansing
Center highlights include on May 6 the Greater Lansing Catholic Education
Foundation hosted an event called "The Lansing Squares" which was a Hollywood
Squares set and featured local celebrity guests including Chris Holman as the MC,
George Pereles, Sheri Jones, Mark Nixon, Kelly Rossman, and many others. May 7-9
Life Changers Christian Center Annual Women's Conference featured guest speaker
Janice Holyfield, wife of boxer Evander Holyfield, and approximately 300 people
attended. On May 9, Lansing Community College held their graduation ceremonies
for 300 students with approximately 2000 plus people attending. May 11-12 the.
Imagin Forum took place and this was the seventh year this event took place at the
Lansing Center and we hope to book them again for 1999. On May 14-16 the
Michigan Congress Parent Teacher took place with 700 people in attendance. May
20 we hosted the Lansing City Council Student Government Day and this was our
second year as the host site and as participants. Commissioner Butler questioned
number of students participating in the Student Government Day? Mr. Swanson noted
the event is held on three separate days and involves local High School Government
classes with approximately 200 students participating. All City Departments
participate as well. Peter added that there were 8-10 kids that visited LEPFA.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
May 5, 1998
Peter noted as reported by City Councilmember Sandy Allen, the Fire Department,
the Police Department and LEPFA are the popular selections for the students.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler reported he and Peter continue to meet on a monthly basis
to discuss any issues. Chair Butler reported based upon his understanding, the new staff
member in the Accounting Department is working out well and he asked Marian for an update.
Marian noted he has been on board for approximately two weeks and is working out well and
is working primarily with Brandon on Food and Beverage and City Market issues. Chair
Butler also noted we are in the process of hiring an event coordinator and have identified
several candidates. He noted further in the month of June the Personnel Committee will be
working on Personnel Policies and at this time it appears that all is well in regard to personnel
issues. Commissioner Janssen questioned the status of the employee evaluations as they tie in
with the year-end. Peter noted evaluations will take place in June.
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
None.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 1998 AT 7:30 A.M.
AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
THERE WILL BE NO LEPFA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETINGS IN JULY.
At 8:05 a.m. it was moved that the meeting be adjourned. MOTION: Commissioner Janssen SECOND:
Commissioner Butler, motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING 'sTs; I---i`y ''
JUKE 23, 1998 E P C 1 A !l 3 5
MINUTES
JISING CITY CLERK
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Donald J. Ristow called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the
Lansing Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Robert Lee, Kate
McNenly, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton,
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Cyril McGuire, and Dennis Sykes (Ex-
officio).
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF MAY 27, 1998:
The minutes of May 27, 1998 stand approved as published.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
As the out-going Chairman, Chairman Ristow presented the attached comments to the Board
of Commissioners for their consideration.
B. NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT:
Committee Chairman Kate McNenly presented the following slate of officers as recommended
and approved by the Nominating Committee:
1. Charles Janssen - Chairman
2. James Butler III - Vice Chairman
3. Charlotte Sinadinos - Secretary/Treasurer
Three times Chairman Ristow asked for nominations from the floor. There were no floor
nominations and as such, he closed the nominations and requested a unanimous ballot be
cast for the nominees presented by the Nominating Committee.
MOTION: Butler SECOND: Jeffries Motion unanimously carried.
Chairman Ristow extended his congratulations to the Officers as well as his thanks to the
Nominating Committee for a job well done. Chair Ristow noted the terms of the Officers
will begin on July 1, 1998.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
June 23, 1998
C. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending May 31, 1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year by 2% or
$1,039. Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 7% or $2,277. Total Operating
Expense increased by 32% or $31,343 over last year. Net Income after the city
contribution as of May 31, 1998 is $17,636 and Net Income after depreciation is
$18,786. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 43%, last month it was 42%, and
last year it was 54%. Chair Sinadinos noted the Total Operating Revenue reflects
parking revenue that has not been received. The current ratio is 4.2, last month it
was 6.51, and last year it was 4.80. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is
165.96, it was 153.41 last month and last year it was 236.28. Actual Operating
Revenues are under budget by 6% or $3,368 and Actual Operating Expenses are
under budget by 16% or $25,455.
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or$898; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 15% or$28,667;
Net Income after city contribution is ($2,816) and Net Income after depreciation is
$22,982 as of May 31, 1998. Event Revenues of $22,950 are attributed to MSU
Baseball with Event Expenses of$6,104 for a net of$16,845 which is applied to the
Total Event Development Fund of$69,620. The Current Ratio is 1.48 and was 1.54
last month. Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 233.09 and last month it was
212.47.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 6% or$234,390. Total
Building Rental is less than last year by 3% or $38,617. Total Operating Expense
increased by 10% or $387,929. Net Income after City contribution is $458,169 and
is $615,632 after depreciation. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 98%, 97%
last month, and was 102% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted on the Income Statement
Food and Beverage did well with $331,880 compared to $284,125 last year.
Equipment Rental is up significantly compared to last year, and Trade Show Utilities
are up as well. Under Operating Expenses we are still low and Salaries and Wages are
up for the current period and year-to-date because we are more fully staffed, but we
are in line with the budget. With expenses taken into account for Food and Beverage
we are at a net of $851,000. Our current ratio is 2.64, last month it was 2.29 and last
year it was 2.55. Our equity in number of days of Operation is 78.30, last month it
was 71.98 and last year it was 77.31. Total Cash and Restricted Assets are at
$630,000. Account Receivables for the current year are $535,000 of which $135,000
has been collected. Under Budget versus Actual it was noted that our Operating
Revenues are over budget by 9% or $360,248 and Actual Operating Expenses are
under budget by 3% or $118,288. Sinadinos noted under Operating Income we are
over budget by a total of$360,000 and in particular Food and Beverage, Equipment
Rental, Tradeshow Utilities, Labor and Service are all over budget. Under Operating
Expenses we are under budget year-to-date $118,287.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
June 23, 1998
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending May 31, 1998 be received
as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be approved.
MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner McNeely, the motion
carried.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter noted we continue to meet with the various bargaining units,
including the stagehands, and we have recently hired a Tech Services Manager.
Regarding the Facility Workers we continue to meet and move forward however, at
this time there are no new developments.
2. Lansing City Market: Rental revenue for the month is up $1100 compared to May,
1997 and occupancy is at 87%, which is about 10% over last May. In regard to
recruitment we have added another vendor, Winkler's Czechoslovakian Pastries, and
are working to recruit a homemade candy and ice cream vendor to the Market this
summer/fall. Peter noted the Market Beautification efforts continue and a number of
positive comments have been received. The Operations Department has recently
replaced the old wooden fences and storage areas for the trash containers. Flowerbeds
have been planted in the containers near the entrances as well. "Neighborhoods in
Bloom" which helps dispense flowers to the local neighborhoods took place and Peter
indicated this type of event provides good exposure for the Market. On May 30 the
Market participated in the Convention/Visitors Bureau "Be a Tourist in Your Own
Town," we served about 2000 free hot dogs between 11:00 a.m, and 4:00 p.m. and
many positive comments were received regarding the Market. The vendors reported
this was a very profitable event for them and they were pleased with the exposure to
new clientele.
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported the most recent event at Olds Park was the "Yes
Fest" which was held on Saturday and Sunday June 20 and 21. On Saturday the
classic rock portion was held with 5-6000 attending and on Sunday the country portion
was held with attendance about the same as Saturday. Peter noted there were no
incidences, although one of the carnival trailers caught fire due to an electrical issue,
and no one was injured. Peter noted overall we were very happy with the turnout and
are assessing the event financially.
Peter indicated he continues to meet with the Lugnuts regarding utilities and suite
renewals. The box office expansion continues and we are awaiting windows and
hopefully it will be ready for the July 4`h Symphony. The Old-timers Classic Baseball
game took place in June and hosted between 400-500 people. Plans are underway for
the Symphony on July 4`h and Fiesta Del Verano on July 11. Monthly Movies will
take place as well, with the individual movies to be determined.
4. Lansing Center: The Lansing Center hosted 59 events, which equated to 96 event
days, with approximately 19,000 attendees, equaling 1900 room nights for an
economic impact of approximately$900,000. Peter compared the figures to 1997 and
noted the number of events were down but the number of event days were up,
attendance was down, and economic impact and room nights were greater, which
displays the difference in the types of events we attract and the resulting profitability.
LEPFA Board Meeting
Page 4
June 23, 1998
Peter noted the May CVB bids include S. Abraham and Son which is an annual
regional food and trade show confirmed for 2001-5 (2500 per event); Perennial Plant
Association Annual Convention and Tradeshow confirmed for 1999; the Michigan
Republican Annual State Convention confirmed for February, 1999 and we will host
the Democrats in August, 1998; Department of Parks and Recreation and Touring
Resources booked as well. Peter reported there were 128 bookings in the month of
May created by the Sales Department and include Diamond Quest in September, 1998;
the Greater Lansing Catholic Education Foundation in January, 1999; the Michigan
Floral Association in March of 1999 and 2000 which was previously held at the
Westin Hotel in Detroit.
Lansing Center Highlights during May include the Michigan Federation of Private
Child and Family Agencies with approximately 400 people attending the event which
recognizes foster care and adoptive families throughout the state. The Mason and Holt
High School proms were held at the Lansing Center in addition to the Michigan Aids
Fund which held a press conference that featured Miss America promoting the state-
wide Aids Walks; on June 5-6 The Information Network for Christian Homes
provided seminars to families that are involved in home schooling; the amphitheater
was used by Kolt and Serkaian to present a 20 foot high check in the amount of$4.3
million which was presented to the Capital Region Community Foundation by the
Greater Lansing Foundation and that check is now a billboard on I-496 and 127. June
15 and 16 Michigan Works Governor's School to Work conference was in house. On
June 19 the Board of Water and Light held their third Chili Cookoff with the proceeds
benefiting the "Adopt a River Program," and about 1500 people attended. Peter noted
Chef and Fine Host won three awards, the weather was great and it was touted as the
best yet. Tad clarified that Fine Host/Chef won all of the awards for which they were
qualified. Peter noted this past Friday we hosted a comedienne and a dance sponsored
by Michigan Pride.
5. CUED Conference: Peter indicated he attended a CUED conference in Buffalo, New
York through the efforts of Bob Swanson and was asked to speak on integrating sports
facilities in the downtown. He also discussed the kinds of development sports facilities
attract and along with the types of entertainment you can do other than baseball. Peter
reported he was on a panel along with the owner of the NHL Sabres of the Marine
Midland Arena in Buffalo and the Mayor of Akron. Peter noted overall he felt it went
very well and it is nice that we have a story to tell regarding Oldsmobile Park and the
attendees enjoyed hearing about Lansing.
6. Baseball Article: Peter noted Oldsmobile Park was on the front page of the Detroit
News on Monday, June 22 which featured minor league stadiums in Toledo, Battle
Creek, and Lansing. Under Lansing the comments were as follows "The Lugnuts'
Oldsmobile Park is the crown jewel of Michigan's minor league parks. It is chiseled
into the ground and squeezed between busy downtown streets. Though it is only three
years old it does not feel sanitized or yuppified, it has the yeasty feel of an old park
complete with cars and trains chugging past the a-semetrical right field fence
reminding old-timers of Ebbets Field."
LEPFA Board Meeting
Page 5
June 23, 1998
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler reported that he was extremely pleased that Peter was able
to make a presentation at an out of town convention, and is pleased when anyone is in a
position to tell the Lansing story and he noted in his opinion we have a good story to tell and
some of the things we have to tell have been outstanding. Committee Chair Butler indicated
he and Peter met recently and continue to meet as they always do to discuss policy and general
updates. Chair Butler noted in July the Personnel Committee will work on Personnel Policies
and preparations for the evaluations and recommendations in reference to incentives as well
based upon the policies and procedures and contracts we have in place. He noted it has been
requested that all of the employee evaluations be completed by August 15 due the auditors and
closing of the books in July.
Commissioner Butler commented to Chair Ristow that in his opinion he felt Chair Ristow has
done an outstanding job and there is no question in his mind from the beginning in reference
to the type of judgement calls that he had to make, i.e. the selection of the CEO, he would
classify as great leadership and commitment. Butler noted Chair Ristow's commitment is
contagious and thanked him for that and noted we have come a long way and that he is
extremely proud to have been a part of it from the beginning and in some of the decisions had
to be made were not rushed to judgement, because the decisions have to be lasting. And last
but not least, we had to make sure that we can be accountable and hold our heads high and say
that we had made all of the right decisions for all of the right reasons and basically we have
done so. Butler indicated Ristow will be missed and will be remembered for a job extremely
well done and extended his thanks.
III. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
1. Commissioner Wootton: Commissioner Denise Wootton commented from the standpoint of
the vendors at the City Market, that not only is the Market better from a financial standpoint
from LEPFA's point of view, but she also indicated that all the vendors that she has spoken
to are doing better financially and have seen an increase in customers. Peter noted it was nice
to hear, and should be attributed to the vendors and the efforts of the Marketing Department
and Tad which have enhanced the marketing efforts not only through the traditional means of
advertising i.e. billboards, TV ads, but also some of the different and unique things such as
getting the vendors involved in shows at the Lansing Center. Commissioner Butler asked
Commissioner Wootton what she felt has been the main contributing factor in her opinion?
Commissioner Wootton indicated she felt it had to be the marketing and word of mouth,
however, the marketing gave people a second look at the Market and they are telling people.
Commissioner Butler questioned if there was anything additional we could do to enhance the
efforts, and Wootton indicated at this point she felt the ball is rolling and she is feeling good
about it. Her only concern is key vendors that may not be around much longer, which will
leave voids. Butler questioned if we had a replacement strategy? Tad Carper noted that
currently we have existing vendors that would be interested in obtaining additional space/
opportunity.
LEFPA Board of Commissioners
Page 6
June 23, 1998
2. Commissioner Robert Swanson: Commissioner Swanson, on behalf of the Mayor, the City
Administration and himself thanked Chair Ristow for the work he has done as the first Chair
of the Authority, as well as the tremendous amount of work Don has done in moving the
Authority from an idea to a tremendously successful reality. Chair Ristow indicated his thanks
to the Mr. Swanson, the Mayor, and the Administration for their support and noted he was
grateful for having the privilege of serving.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
Commissioner Charlie Janssen reflected on the history of Chair Ristow's involvement as a member
first of the Greater Lansing Convention/Exhibition Authority and then as a member of LEPFA.
On behalf of the Board and the City, Janssen thanked Ristow for all of his efforts.
Peter presented Chair Ristow with a plaque and pen on behalf of Management and the Board and
extended his thanks and appreciation for Chair Ristow's hard work and efforts and his support.
Chair Ristow extended his thanks and appreciation.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1998 AT 7:30
A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:25 a.m. it was moved that the meeting be adjourned. MOTION: Commissioner Janssen SECOND:
Commissioner Sinadinos, motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
ATTACHMENTI
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
JUNE 23, 1998
Chairman Donald Ristow's Comments
Ladies and gentlemen, as this should be my last board meeting as your chairman, I would
like to take this opportunity to reflect briefly on our past, the present and our future.
Our past was an extremely important time as it set the entire foundation for the present and
our future.
The foundation was a concept to operate individual entertainment and public facilities
under one umbrella much like a holding company. This concept became a reality when
the former "Exhibition Authority" was dissolved and our present authority was formed.
From a business perspective, it made a tremendous amount of sense. An opportunity to
realize economies of scale in operations, marketing and sales. An opportunity to attract,
recruit and assemble some of the country's best business minds and top ranking CEOs.
And lastly, an opportunity to increase the region's economic impact.
The Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority has come a long way in a
relatively short period of time. Today we are positioned, we have the mechanism and
strategies in place to easily add new business entities. Today, we enjoy a moderately
sound financial base, have both an outstanding management team and work force and
have a dedicated group of policy makers. In my estimation, ladies and gentlemen, LEPFA
has passed the acid test, it has proven itself as a "win-win" for each of its individual
business entities, the market each represents, the region in general and above all, for the
taxpayer.
But what about the future--Where do we go from here? What are the challenges, goals
and objectives facing us as we move towards the millennium and beyond. First and
foremost, we need to continue to build our reserves both operating and capital
improvements. We have enjoyed strong economic times and from all indications should
continue to do so. But, we need to prepare ourselves for any downturn. An ounce of
prevention is worth a pound of cure. It is also imperative we maintain each facility in atop
notch condition. This means continued modernization, the latest in technology and
facilities that speak to being user friendly. Just as we encourage employees to save, so
must we, as the responsible mangers of several businesses, be encouraged to save.
In addition to saving for the future, we also need to continue to work towards reducing the
future need for the city's investment,without comprising the quality of service or our market
share. We need to maximize our effort to fill the "voids," whether it be the center, city
market, or Oldsmobile Park. By reducing the "voids," those nonproductive time periods,
we should be able to maximize the profitability of each business.
Turning to another matter, sometime during the next several months, management will be
recommending a course of action with respect to our food services contract which will be
expiring next year. This will entail prudent decision making as it represents a substantial
part of our revenue source and in future years, could afford new possibilities if we were
able to expand our food service to the authority's other business venues.
Also, over the next several months, we will need to be thinking of and broaching a
business plan for the expansion of the center. There is no question we need additional
office space and could certainly use some additional revenue generating, break out rooms,
let alone storage space. This past week Bob Swanson shared an article with me taken
from the Grand Rapids Press. It talks about an expanded Grand Center- 165,000 square
foot expansion. Ladies and gentlemen, this is our competition. Need I say more?
Another challenge, which has no easy solution but makes a world of good sense, is better
control of parking. Currently, as you are well aware, the Authority does not control the
parking either beneath or adjacent to the center. One stop shopping is absolutely
necessary to maintain our competitiveness and operational stability and above all, be user
friendly. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done and will require much thought,
discussion and, I am sure, compromise. It does, however, remain an important issue and
one that is crucial to the continued future success of this authority.
Lastly, a priority that due to time constraints and numerous other more important matters
got pushed to the back burner, is one of education and training. Just as we expect
management to provide for the ongoing education and training of staff, so must we as a
board be responsible for our own education, training and management development. Most
of the education thus far has come from the immediate need to learn, a hands on approach
if you will. For example, if and when a performing arts center comes on line, we need to
have a mature understanding of the business principles inherent to a performing arts
business entity.
In conclusion, the most important aspect to our past, our present, and to the future, is
people. Forme it has been truly a privilege to work with a wonderful group of people. I
thank our Mayor, his administration, and the City Council for their visionary role in
developing a single management/multi-business concept and for their ongoing support.
I thank Peter, his management team and every employee for a job well done.
Management has not only carried out board policy as it should, but has been assertive in
developing each business to maximize its potential. I thank our faithful and dependable
recording secretary, Heidi Brown, who has been an invaluable asset, both behind the
scenes with management, and scheduling to carrying out the responsibility of board
minutes, notices, agendas and reports. And lastly, but certainly not least, I thank each of
you. You are an exceptional and wonderful group of policy makers. Whether it be a table
officer, committee chair, committee member, or commissioner, each of you has worked
hard, carried out each and every assignment, and have functioned as a real team. And
we all know there is no"I" in team. My friends, you have my profound and heartfelt thanks.
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
AUGUST 18, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Charles Janssen called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the Lansing
Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Cyril--.McGuire, Kate
McNeely, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio),Robert Lee, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio)
and Dennis Sykes (Ex-officio).
OTHERS PRESENT_Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan and Eleanor Love - City of Lansing.
IH. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF JUNE 23, 1998:
The minutes of June 23, 1998 stand approved as published. Motion: Commissioner Ristow
Second: Commissioner Wootton, motion carried.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. Committee Appointments: Chairman Janssen reported he has been discussing Committee Chair
appointments with various Board members and establishing the various committees. Chair
Janssen indicated he would distribute the Committee list to the Board members once the
Committees are confirmed. Chair Janssen extended his appreciation noting all Board members
have been cooperative and agreeable.
2. Eleanor Love Planning Manager- "Old Town/Downtown Master Plan Update": Chairman
Janssen introduced Eleanor Love, Planning Manager for the City of Lansing who presented
the "Downtown Master Plan." Ms. Love noted the plan currently encompasses I-496 south
to the CSX railroad tracks on the east, to Washington, Saginaw, and Shiawassee streets back
to 496 (this is a large ten block area with a variety of land uses). The plan began last
September with a focus group compiled of a variety of people from the schools, retailers,
bankers, neighborhood groups, library, etc. Two public hearings were held to obtain input
on downtown and a Steering Committee was appointed to consider issues/concerns and also
to consider ways to enhance what is already available. The "Final Use Concept" considered
combining Old Town and Downtown, but it was determined that it was physically impossible
to develop one district. Three districts were considered i.e. an Entertainment District, Capital
District and Old Town District and it was determined that the Grand River would be
incorporated in the Entertainment District as another form of entertainment. Eleanor noted
the plan currently dictates that the Entertainment District overlaps the Capital District which
includes retailers (South Washington) and the marketing people felt Old Town could
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
August 18, 1998
stand on its own and expand its market share; and that South Washington needed to fill the
space they have and could fill or add additional space.
Lansing Community College was also reviewed and it was felt that the area should be opened
to the north to allow pedestrian access. The opening of Washington Street to Saginaw is also
under consideration and is a part of the integration in the Master Plan. Ms. Love noted
residential areas were also considered and it was determined that in order to support the
changes, new upscale housing should be included with a mix of commercial entities such as
bakeries, coffeehouses, grocery stores, etc., and a "Land Use Plan" would then be developed
which would be closer to a zoning concept. Love noted transportation is the issue that will
bring all the concepts together and there were a number of issues identified, the first being one-
way streets. Traffic count preliminary studies have been completed suggesting
recommendations for circulation changes in downtown Lansing. The first phase of change
recommended is to change Washtenaw, Shiawassee and Ionia streets to two-way, while
maintaining parking. The second phase would be to develop a better way to travel the "capitol
loop" and one of the thoughts was to keep Capital and Walnut one-way, and to turn Pine and
Grand into two-way streets. Other issues include changing the Grand Avenue Ramps to accept
two-way traffic and addressing the 1-496 off traffic ramp.
The third phase includes Cedar and Larch streets because it has been determined that it is hard
to encourage parking between two one-way streets and the final suggestion includes turning
both streets into two-way streets by changing Larch to four lanes with restricted turns and
Cedar Street into two lanes, two ways and leave room for parking. This will allow for less
traffic and easier pedestrian parking. Eleanor noted this plan has been presented to the State
Highway Department and there are issues to be addressed. Eleanor noted the Steering
Committee has approved the plan and it is currently before the Planning Board and it is
anticipated that their review will be completed in September. Commissioner Ristow questioned
if there are any developers that are interested in developing housing i.e. condominiums, etc.?
Eleanor noted there is interest, and people are waiting to see how the condos being developed
on the north end fare. Also, there is a plan to develop upscale condos on Forrest Road near
the University Club. Eleanor noted a result of this plan is a change in our zoning ordinance
and they are considering an ordinance that would require downtown buildings to have windows
on the first floor to maintain the pedestrian scale, etc.
Commissioner Sinadinos asked if there had been any thought given to the development of a
downtown hotel? Eleanor noted that a hotel has been included in the Marketing Plan and they
are recommending/considering a limited service hotel (i.e. a Hampton Inn or Marriott
Courtyard).
Commissioner Butler questioned where we are in terms of the process of execution? Ms. Love
noted part of the implementation of the plan is to look at the zoning (the Entertainment District
is currently industrial zoned); to show developers that currently we are focusing on zoning that
is more supportive of the Entertainment District in the downtown area.
Commissioner Jeffries questioned where the City is looking to locate General Motors and have
any recommendations been made? Eleanor noted GM has indicated the size and the scope and
we are considering how we could re-use the existing site. Also how they do business is being
reviewed, i.e. while GM is no longer a supplier, they want supplies available so that a location
for suppliers is under consideration as well.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
August 18, 1998
Chair Janssen thanked Ms. Love for her presentation and noted that Peter Sullivan is currently
a member of the steering committee.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following draft financial
statements as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending June 30, 1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 9% or$5,928.
Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 6% or $2,453. Total Operating Expense
increased by 1% or $745 over last year. Net Income after the city contribution as of
June 30, 1998 is $30,402 and Net Income after depreciation is $31,657. Internal
Revenue coverage of expenses is 52%, last month it was 43%, and last year it was
47%. Building Rental is up $41,459, Parking is at $28,975 and Total Operating
Income is up compared to the prior year at $72,839 compared to $66,911. Total
Operating Expenses differ by $500 ($145,851 compared to $145,106.33 last year).
The current ratio is 4.82, last month it was 4.20, and last year it was 2.16. Our
Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 194.12; it was 165.96 last month and
120.96 last year. Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 8% or$5,139 and
Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 15% or $24,948. Accounts
Receivable of$16,716 is parking money that is owed by the City.
b. Oldsmobile Park: Chair Sinadinos noted Actual Operating Revenues are over budget
by 100% or $911; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 10% or $23,673;
Net Income after city contribution is $30,264 and Net Income after depreciation is
$58,411 as of June 30, 1998. Actual year-to-date compared to budget, Utilities are
over by about$5,000; Maintenance of Equipment and Maintenance of Facilities are
both under budget and Total Operating Expenses are under budget. The Current Ratio
is 1.62 and was 1.48 last month. Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 299.89
and last month it was 233.09. Current Year Event Development Fund is $81,104.28;
it was $17,830 at the beginning of the year.
At 8:05 a.m. Commissioner Ristow exited the meeting.
c. Lansing Center: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by 6% or$250,639. Total
Building Rental is less than last year by 3% or $36,732. Total Operating Expense
increased by 8% or $340,172. Net Income after city contribution is $171,039 and is
$343,104 after depreciation as of June 30, 1998. Internal Revenue coverage of
expenses is 92%, 98% last month, and was 94% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted
under Building Rental we did come in slightly under last year due to loss of events to
other facilities. Food and Beverage had another record year with $2,602,000
compared to $2,434,000 last year which was also a record year. Equipment Rental,
Trade Show Utilities and Labor Services are up over the prior year, for an overall
Operating Income total of $4,426,000 compared to $4,175,000 the previous year.
Under Operating Expenses, Salaries and Wages are up over the prior year, as
expected, due to being more fully staffed. Utilities were up more than anticipated,
$559,000 compared to$519,000 the prior year. Food and Beverage expenses were up,
however we still netted$854,000 compared to$809,995 which is a 5.4% net increase
over last year.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
August 18, 1998
Operating Income is $220,934 compared to $205,524. Our current ratio is 1.71, last
month it was 2.64 and last year it was 1.33. Our Equity in Number of Days of
Operation is 53.67, last month it was 78.30 and last year it was 45.51. Total Cash is
at$327,000 and Restricted Assets Cash are $290,000. Under Liabilities &Equity our
Accounts Payable is $248,00 and is down compared to last year. Accrued
Salary/Wages/Benefits are down compared to last year, Unearned Revenue -
Advanced Rent is down compared to last year; resulting in Unreserved Equity of
$711,830 this year and $540,790 compared to last year. Under Budget versus Actual
it was noted that our Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 8% or$340,801
and Actual Operating Expenses are over budget by less than 1% or $20,946.
Sinadinos noted Building Rental was under compared to budget by $12,000, and Food
and Beverage was over budget by 9% or$21,000. Total Operating Income was over
budget by $4,426,000 compared to $4,085,000 and Total Operating Expense was over
budget, $4,841,000 compared to $4,820,000.
Commissioner Butler questioned the Operating Income noting the increase is
substantial and he questioned the contributing factors, noting the vending in-house?
Peter reported we took over the vending and purchased our own machines because it
was noted that the attendance figures had increased, but our vending revenue stayed
the same. Marian Bryant noted that there is an increase in the line item as well,
however we have generated more income. Commissioner Butler also questioned the
increase in Labor and Services? Peter attributed the increase as two fold; first he
attributed the increase to capturing and charging clients for labor, and secondly, we
had two large events, the Pentecostal Keralites and the Oldsmobile 100 Year
Celebration. Michael Meyers noted that the new carpet purchased has increased
carpet rental and has already paid for half of its cost, which will help us in future
years. Butler also questioned the "Signs/Promotions" line item? Peter noted this is
a new line item and it went from 0 to $25,000 in one year (due to the Marketing
Department's efforts) and he anticipates that the figure will increase due to advertising
and sponsorship opportunities not only through the building, but through event and
promotional items. Commissioner Butler also questioned the increase in "Utilities."
Peter noted this was due to more events and also the Board of Water and Light
restructured their billing method, in addition to the warmer weather, which started
earlier and has lasted longer. Michael Meyers also noted previously we received a
rebate based on the costs of the energy charged to the Board of Water and Light
however, regulations have been imposed and as such we have budgeted $590,000
compared to $559,000.
At 8:20 a.m. Jack Jordan exited the meeting.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the financial statements for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending June 30, 1998 be received
as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be approved.
MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner Butler, the motion
carried.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter noted Michael Meyers continues to meet with the various
bargaining units and progress has been made with the Maintenance Workers resulting
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
August 16, 1998
in a three-year contract with 3% annual increases. Peter reported a meeting was held
with the Facility Workers on August 12 to discuss the 18 issues submitted by the
Union, most of which have been rejected by Management (examples of the requests
are 23 phone calls per month for each employee, increasing sick time by 200% from
5 days to 15 days, increasing personal time by 300% or from 2 to 5 days). Peter
noted wages appear to be the biggest issue, they have asked fora 25% increase in
wages and our offer is around 3%. Peter noted he will keep the Board abreast of any
changes.
Regarding the Technical Services unit, progress has been slow and we have offered
3% annually with an option of 2% merit for the Technical Services Manager (this
bargaining unit is 2 people). Peter noted we will continue to keep the Board abreast
of any developments. The Stagehands are the last bargaining group of the three and
a number of issues were raised, including the quality and appearance of the laborers.
Peter noted the President of Union has been receptive to the issues, however it appears
that the membership continues to discuss these issues among themselves. Peter stated
he will keep the Board abreast of any developments.
Regarding other operational issues, Peter reported Michael Meyers, through
negotiations was able to reduce the annual cost of the elevator service fees by$10,000
a year, for five years.
2. Lansing City Market: Peter reported the June rental rate is up about$400 over June
1997 and occupancy is at 87%, which is about 9% over June 1997. In July the rental
rate was up $1,350 over July 1997 and occupancy was at 86%, which was a 36%
increase over July 1997. In regard to recruitment efforts, we have been successful in
recruiting Fabiano's Homemade Ice Cream and Chocolates as a vendor and will offer
Michigan made and based products. Peter noted the Woottons helped to make this
addition possible by relocating and he thanked Jim and Denise Wootton for making the
move in the best interests of the Market. Peter reported we have short-term leases
with a produce grower and a greenhouse grower. Special events held included the
Tri-County Iris Society's annual Iris Sale at the City Market on July 25 and they hope
to return next year for their sale as well as their Iris Show. On July 26 the Michigan
Millers Insurance Company held their picnic at the Market.
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported since the last Board meeting a number of musical
events have taken placed, specifically the second annual Fiesta Del Verano on
Saturday, July 19 which featured a number of local popular bands during the day (free
of charge) on Michigan Avenue as well as the showmobile and a number of national-
acts in the evening. Peter noted the plaza in front of the stadium featured an ethnic
food court in addition to a merchandise mart. Peter noted the crowd was slightly
larger than last year, however, we made money this year in conjunction with our
partners. Peter noted overall the operations went smoothly this year and
acknowledged the Operations and Marketing Departments for their efforts and in
particular the sponsorship dollars raised to help fund the event. July 4`'we hosted the
Symphony, which was again very successful and attracted in excess of 6,000 people,
and it is continuing to build.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
August 16, 1998
Peter noted this year the musical selections changed a bit and were more contemporary
and included Disney themes in addition to the patriotic themes and were very well
received. Peter reported meetings are on going with the symphony and we are looking
at two events for next year. Peter noted five monthly movies have been shown,
beginning on July 17 "Tomorrow Never Dies" (400 in attendance) and "Deep Impact"
and "Lost in Space" which each attracted over 1500, and "Titanic"which attracted
in excess of 6,000 and had "standing room only." The "Truman Show" was also
shown and attracted over 1500 as well. Peter noted we averaged around 1500 in
attendance and have found that movies that have come off the big screen and have not
yet been released in the video stores are well received. Peter noted this year the
movies made money and it is anticipated that we will net between$8,000 and$10,000
due to reduced expenses and sponsorship money raised for them.
At 8:39 a.m. Cyril McGuire exited the meeting.
Peter indicated he continues to meet with Tom Dickson regarding utilities and recently
sent him another extensive analysis and Dickson indicated he read the letter several
times and did not understand it and suggested they move to arbitration. Peter indicated
he will keep the Board abreast of any developments. The box office expansion is
continuing and the construction will hopefully be complete in one to two weeks.
Peter reported the newspaper has indicated that the Lugnuts attendance is down about
20,000 compared to last year, however per capita spending has increased, therefore
the total dollars are in line with last year and we are in line with last year as well.
They anticipate 480,000 in attendance this year and last year's attendance was at
530,000 which included the playoffs and the All Star game.
4. Lansing Center: During the month of June the Lansing Center hosted 34 events, which
equated to 44 event days, with approximately 12,000 attendees, equaling 1300 room
nights for an economic impact of approximately$370,000. Peter compared the figures
to 1997 and noted we had four less events, eight less event days, and attendance was
down by about 3000, however the room nights and economic impact were higher.
Peter compared the fourth quarter 1998 to 1997 and noted there were 27 more events,
128 more event days, attendance was down by about 30,000 people, however room
nights were up by 3500 and the economic impact was up by about $800,000.
Peter noted there were 60 bookings in June and 93 in July. CVB bid confirmations in
June and July include a Debutante Cotillion confirmed for March 1999; the
Greenhouse Growers of Michigan confirmed for September, 1999 (1000 attendees);
and in March 2,000 — Mary Kay Cosmetics Career Conference 2000 with
approximately 4000 attendees.
Lansing Center highlights during June and July include July 11-13 the hosting of the
Michigan Fire Chiefs 73`d Annual Conference which has been in Lansing for past 11
years and draws about 300 attendees; July 17-18 we hosted the Quaker State
Woodworking Show with over 600 participating in the free seminars and
demonstrations open to the public; July 24 the Michigan State Police graduation
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 7
August 16, 1998
ceremony took place with just under 2000 people attending in Hall C and this was the
largest graduating class to-date with 94 graduates. August 1 and 2 the Mid Michigan
Cat Fanciers were in the building drawing over 1500 people over two days in Hall C.
August 8 Diamond Quest was in Halls A, B and C to host their leadership conference
with over 3500 people attending. We have also hosted five weddings and one
quinceneria.
Upcoming events include the Michigan CPA's on August 20-21, the Ferguson
Wedding on August 22 with the ceremony performed by the Reverend Jesse Jackson
with the reception to be filmed by Lifetime Television and will be featured as "A
Wedding Story" at least 10 times over the next two years. Peter noted we have
negotiated a copy of the tape and we have a professional photographer taking photos
of the event and we are happy to have the opportunity to host the wedding. On August
29 and 30 we will host the Michigan Democratic Convention.
Commissioner Butler asked Peter what are his "hot issues" and/or "focus issues" and
taking those in to consideration, what does the Board need to do to support him in any
form or fashion? Peter noted at this point his concerns are long range planning items,
i.e. the issues brought up by Chair Ristow, including expansion of the Lansing Center
and an additional downtown hotel (a full service hotel). Competition continues to
increase via the Capital Centre, the casinos, etc. and they have the potential to impact
our rental and food and beverage income. Discussion ensued regarding expansion of
the Lansing Center, competing entities, and the importance of a Long Range Planning
Committee.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler reported that he and Peter continue to meet regarding
Personnel issues and again congratulated Peter on his presentation at the CUED Conference
in Buffalo which was extremely well received and as was noted in the letter enclosed in the
Board's information. Chair Butler indicated that he felt it was important to get the word out
about Lansing. Chair Butler indicated he and Peter had a chance to discuss staff and morale/
attitude and it appears that things are moving along very well. Commissioner Butler noted that
negotiations continue with the various Union bargaining units, i.e, maintenance, stagehands
and facilities, and are ongoing because of the demands that they are putting on the table and
the requests that they are making. Butler noted in reference to the new employees, i.e. the
Financial Analyst and the Receptionist, they are making progress,'and are dealing with issues.
Chair Butler noted that he was saddened to learn about the death of City Market vendor John
Gavenda and noted that flowers were sent from the LEPFA Board. Butler noted currently
there is a need for an Event Coordinator, maintenance personnel, and we are looking to fill
a supervisory position, which is considered from within and then we will look to the outside
if necessary. Chair Butler noted the CEO's evaluation also needs to be completed and will be
sent to Board members for recommendation and the Personnel Committee will meet to discuss
this issue and also the employee evaluations need to be completed as well. Chair Butler noted
if there are any questions, suggestions or recommendations not to hesitate to contact him and
that a meeting will be set before the end of the month for the Personnel Committee members.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 8
August 18, 1998
Chairman Janssen clarified that regarding the CEO's evaluation the Personnel Committee will
conduct that evaluation as has been done in the past, and in keeping with the 60 day time frame
following the audit that the Personnel Committee will make that decision and will make a
decision regarding a bonus and implement it. Janssen indicated that it was his desire that all
the Commissioners be afforded the opportunity to attend the meeting and/or to give input into
the evaluation process. Janssen indicated that he understood further that the recommendation
would not come before the full Board for approval in September. Committee Chair Butler
indicated that was his understanding as well, and that the purpose of the evaluations being sent
out is to afford each Board member the opportunity to evaluate the CEO and then to have them
returned collectively as a part of the Personnel evaluation and recommendation, as has been
done in the past.
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
A. Commissioner Ellen Jeffries: Commissioner Jeffries requested a listing of rental rates for use
of the City Market for events. Tad indicated he will forward the information to Ellen Jeffries.
Commissioner Jeffries questioned why the pedway was not accessible this morning. Michael
Meyers noted that the pedway was closed due to routine maintenance.
B. Commissioner Butler: Commissioner Butler indicated he had the opportunity to attend the
Titanic movie and it was outstanding; it sold out and it was exciting and fun to be there. Butler
indicated he could not believe that there was standing room only and noted that the production
was good, the sound was strong, and it was very well received. Butler also noted in reference
to the State Police event it also was extremely well received; Butler noted he has served on the
State Police Oral Board for the past five (5)years and that he meets with the Chief and Captain
frequently and the graduation was very well received. Butler noted he was also working on
the Fergusons to get them to hold their entire wedding events at the Lansing Center, as they
have a function scheduled at the Lansing Country Club as well. Commissioner Butler also
noted that the Board meeting directional sign was not posted this morning as well.
Commissioner Butler indicated that next month he would like to understand where we are in
reference to Michigan Festival and asked if there are things or recommendations for the Board
and asked Peter to present the information at the September Board meeting.
C. Chairman Janssen: Chairman Janssen indicated he will be appointing a Long Range Planning
Committee that will address some of the long range issues indicated by Peter, aside from the full
Board. Chair Janssen thanked the Lansing Center staff in particular Michael and Tad for
tackling the big issues which impact our budget, in particular the elevator contract and signage.
On behalf of Commissioner Ristow, Chair Janssen questioned where we stood on the Principle
Shopping District issue and asked that Mr. Sullivan comment/update Board briefly next month
since we contribute to the PSD.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
None.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners
Page 9
August 18, 1998
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1998 AT
7:30 A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 9:20 a.m. the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
460(� K ' l �
ruvv
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
SEPTEM 3ER 29, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Charles Janssen called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the Lansing
Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Robert Lee, Cyril
McGuire, Kate McNeely, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Dennis
Sykes (Ex-officio).
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton.
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan- City of Lansing.
r-
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
CD r<
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
7. i
rri
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF AUGUST 18, 1998:
The minutes of August 18, 1998 stand approved as published. Motion: CommissioneF-Butler
Second: Commissioner McNeely, motion carried.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. LEPFA Employee Picnic: Chairman Janssen reported he and a number of Board members
attended the Employee Picnic; and he noted that he was appreciative of the efforts of the Board
members who did attend, noting further that he felt it was important that the Board show their
support of the employees and that everyone seemed to have a good time.
2. Auditor's Report: Chairman Janssen noted yesterday the Finance Committee met with the
Auditors, and the Committee reviewed the items listed on the agenda in detail. The Auditor
was on hand to answer any questions the Finance Committee had and he noted that the audit
is in very good order generally and that he appreciated everyone's efforts to keep the process
in order. Janssen asked the Board to keep in mind while reviewing the financial statements that
we had an outstanding start in prior years due to Oldsmobile and the Pentecostal Keralites and
as such it is not a surprise that we are behind the record numbers, but are on pace or beyond
FYE1996 and our current budget.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following draft financial
statements as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending June 30, 1998:
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
September 29,1998
a. Lansing City Market-July 31, 1998: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by
47% or $1,626. Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 47% or $1,644. Total
Operating Expense decreased by 19% or$2,318 over last year. Net Income after the
city contribution as of July 31, 1998 is $9,157 and Net Income after depreciation is
$9,396. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 54%, last month it was 52%, and
last year it was 30%. Sinadinos noted Building Rental is up for the current period, and
Salaries and Wages are up for the current period compared to last year due to the
change in the handling of vacation accrual (its been spread through December).
Marketing is lower compared to the prior year and this is due to the commitment to
spread the marketing throughout the year to benefit the annual vendors. The current
ratio is 5.33, last month it was 4.82, and last year it was 2.47. Our Equity in Number
of Days of Operation is 264.15; it was 194.12 last month and 127.69 last year.
Sinadinos noted our total cash position compare to last year is up, Accounts Payable
are down and Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 6% or $278. Actual
Operating Expenses are under budget by 8% or $926 for a bottom line of$1,203.
b. Oldsmobile Park - July 31, 1998: Chair Sinadinos noted Total Operating Expense
increased by 29% or $4,517, Net Income after city contribution as of July 31, 1998
is ($746), and Net Income after depreciation as of July 31, 1998 is $2,248. Sinadinos
noted Salaries and Wages are higher for the current period due to the change in the
vacation accrual and the allocation of Salaries and Wages to Oldsmobile Park.
Maintenance and Equipment is higher due to the continuation of several service
agreements, as opposed to their establishment last year. Sinadinos noted if we
removed the allocation of Salaries and Wages to Oldsmobile Park, the amount would
be about the same. Sinadinos noted the city contribution allocation of$3,500. The
Current Ratio is 1.32, 1.62 last month and 1.16 last year. Equity in Number of Days
of Operation is 312.26, 299.89 last month and it was 181.40 last year. Current Year
Event Development Fund is $99,673 and Accounts Receivable is at$125,664, which
are sponsorships and monies for suites. Under Budget vs. Actual, Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 9% or $1,931. Sinadinos noted Event Income is
$19,673.
c. Lansing Center-July 31, 1998: Sinadinos again cautioned that the months of July and
August were exceptional last year, and compared to 1996 they are on target. Total
Operating Revenue is less than last year by 61% or $124,381. Total Building Rental
is less than last year by 47% or $21,367. Total Operating Expense decreased by 9%
or $24,119 from last year. Net Income after city contribution is ($118,886) and is
($103,212) after depreciation. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 32%, 92%
last month, and was 72% last year. Chair Sinadinos noted Building Rental is down for
the current period and Food and Beverage is down. Salaries and Wages are up due
to the vacation accrual change. Our current ratio is 1.72, last month it was 1.71 and
last year it was 1.36. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 71.16, last
month it was 53.67 and last year it was 56.37. Total Cash compared to the prior year
is at$337,573. Under Liabilities & Equity our Accounts Payable are down$121,452
compared to $278,687 last year. Unearned Revenue -Advanced Rent is $204,000 as
compared to $297,000 last year. Under Budget versus Actual it was noted that our
Actual Operating Revenues are under budget by 48% or$72,800 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 22% or$71,903. Sinadinos noted the bottom line is that
we are still within$1,000 of our budget.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
September 29, 1998
d. Lansing City Market- August 31, 1998: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year
by 37% or $2,597. Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 41% or $2,890. Total
Operating Expense decreased by 32% or $9,234 over last year. Net Income after the
city contribution is $18,751 and Net Income after depreciation is $19,230. Internal
Revenue coverage of expenses is 54%, last month it was 54%, and last year it was
26%. Sinadinos noted Building Rental is up for the current period as well as year to
date, and Operating Income is less compared to last year as well as year to-date. The
current ratio is 3.88, last month it was 5.33, and last year it was 2.28. Our Equity in
Number of Days of Operation is 304.81, 264.15 last month and 115.63 for last year.
Sinadinos noted our Total Cash Position compared to last year is up by $28,500.
Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 8% or $730 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 16% or $3,867. We are $4,600 ahead of budget.
e. Oldsmobile Park-August 31, 1998: Chair Sinadinos noted Total Operating Expense
increased by 25% or $7,404. Net Income after city contribution as of August 31,
1998 is $1,620 and Net Income after depreciation is$7,479. Sinadinos noted Salaries
and Wages are up due to the allocation of salaries and if the deduction of$3,500 is
taken into consideration, it is about the same as last year. The Current Ratio is 1.43,
1.32 last month and 1.18 last year. Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 339.20,
312.26 last month and it was 184.42 last year. Our cash position is $231,000 this
year, as compared to $218,000 last year; and the Current Year Event Development
Fund is $101,408 compared to $49,456 last year. Actual Operating Expenses are
under budget by 15% or$6,648. Sinadinos noted Event Revenues are $20,377 for a
bottom line Event Income of$21,408.
f. Lansing Center- August 31, 1998: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year by
41% or $196,593. Total Building Rental is less than last year by 42% or $46,412.
Total Operating Expense decreased by 7% or $44,576 from last year. Net Income
after city contribution is ($159,527) and is ($128,589) after depreciation. Internal
Revenue coverage of expenses is 51%, 32% last month and was 80% last year. Chair
Sinadinos noted Food and Beverage is $122,000 compared to $156,000 last year.
Equipment Rental is $25,000. Salaries and Wages are down for the current period,
but they are up and will continue to be up because we are more fully staffed. Food
and Beverage expense compared to income for the year to date net to the Center at this
time is $15,073 compared to 1996 that is an increase. Our current ratio is 1.50, last
month it was 1.72 and last year it was 1.48. Our Equity in Number of Days of
Operation is 60.57, last month it was 71.16 and last year it was 57.04. Our Actual
Operating Revenues are under budget by 9% or $29,378 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 16% or $107,081. Sinadinos noted the bottom line is
that we are still ahead of budget for the current period and year to date.
Chair Sinadinos moved that the monthly financials for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the periods ending July 31, 1998 and August
31, 1998 be received as published and further that the monthly expenses for each
entity be approved. MOTION: Commissioner Ristow SECOND: Commissioner
Butler, the motion carried.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
September 29, 1998
2. Cash Reserve Fund: Chair Sinadinos noted that last year the Finance Committee
recommended establishing a funding level for the Cash Reserve Plan at$290,000. In
1996/97 it was $290,417. This year, after the audit using the same formula the
Committee established, another $96,038 was added to the Cash Reserve Plan.
Committee Chairman Sinadinos offered the following resolution:
The Finance Committee of the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority
unanimously approves and recommends the following resolution to the Lansing
Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority Board of Commissioners:
Based on the strength of the FYE 1997/98 financial statements the Finance Committee
recommends that the LEPFA Board of Commissioners approve an increase to the Cash
Reserve Plan of$96,000, increasing the total funding level in the plan to $386,000.
Motion: Commissioner Ristow Second: Commissioner Jeffries Unanimously
carried.
3. 1997 Auditor's Report: Marian Bryant reviewed the report beginning with the standard
Auditor's letter which states that our financial statements fairly represent LEPFA's
financial position and gives us "a clean bill of health." Marian reviewed the combined
financial statements for all three entities in the format as they will appear in the City's
audit. She reviewed the "Standard Notes" and noted under "Restricted Assets" which
refers to.the Capital Replacement Plan (which is $50,000 per our Operating
Agreement) that money was spent on capital assets for the Lansing Center and it also
references the Event Development Fund which was $17,830 last year and is $81,104
at fiscal year end 1997/98. As indicated in the plan, monies exceeding $80,000 go
back to the City, therefore $1,104.28 has been credited to the City. The Cash Reserve
Plan was at$290,000 as of June 30. Marian reviewed the combined income statements
on page 11 and 12 explaining that the numbers are the same as the numbers that were
presented at the July Board meeting and that the audit supports the numbers as
discussed. In review of the City Market for Fiscal Year 1997/98 there was an
operating loss of $73,012, after adding depreciation and interest and the $100,000
subsidy, the loss is $68,343 for a net income of $30,403. Upon review of the
Oldsmobile Park statements, Marian noted they combine Operations and Events at
year-end; with the Operation being approximately $3,000 of the $180,000 subsidy.
Due to a budget surplus of$13,000 the prior year no budgetary stress was noted.
The Lansing Center operated at a loss of $220,000, and if you consider the
depreciation and interest income, we have a net income $171,000. The Retained
Earnings for the Fiscal Year End 1997/98 for the Lansing Center are $711,830, for
Oldsmobile Park, they are $180,000, and for the City Market, they are $77,571.
Marian reviewed the combined balance sheet for the City Market noting as compared
to last year, our Cash is up, our Accounts Payable are down, and the Retained
Earnings are at$77,571. For Oldsmobile Park, our cash is up compared to last year;
the Event Development Fund went from $17,830 to $81,104.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
September 29, 1998
The Lansing Center has Restricted Assets of$290,000, Cash is down and Accounts
Payable are down as well, for Retained Earnings of$711,830 (1997 Retained Earnings
were $540,792 and 1998 Retained Earnings were $171,038). On the Statement of
Cash Flows, she noted the net increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents for all three
facilities is positive. The Lansing Center's Operations increased its cash by $5,069,
Oldsmobile Park by $53,710 and the Lansing City Market by $2,200.
Marian indicated the inserted pages are a standard letter from the auditors indicating
that they had no problems with the audit; that the audit was conducted by generally
accepted accounting procedures; that there were no disagreements with Management,
that all of our procedures were in order and that they had no difficulty performing the
audit. Bryant noted the Management letter indicates that the federal law has changed
in regard to our 457 Plan, requiring that the monies be placed in a trust so that they
will not be subjected to the employer's creditors and this must be done by January 1,
1999; and that we are aware of the change and are in the process of enacting it.
Commissioner Butler asked Commissioner Swanson his thoughts about the overall
audit results in general. Swanson noted we would like to get to the point where the
City is receiving more than$1,100 a year from the events, however the good news is
that the Event Development fund is up to $101,409 and that the fund is above
$80,000. Swanson noted that we can see a steady progress in the revenues from the
events at the stadium and that the City knew it would take time to build, and we see
progress each year as events such as Fright Night, turned into a positive last year and
will hopefully stay positive with added days this year, and hopefully ice skating will
take place more than a day this year (due to the weather). He noted these exact events
were not built in the pro forma four years ago and we have seen the number of
positive things you can do in the stadium, as well as the positive community events at
the stadium. Swanson noted this is moving very positively, and that about a year and
half ago the City provided $50,000 to start the Event Development Fund which ended
last fiscal year with$17,000 and this year it is at$81,000.
Chair Sinadinos noted that the Auditor was very complimentary of Marian and Peter
and she thanked them for their efforts and good work. Commissioner Ellen Jeffries
noted there was an issue discussed with the Auditor, which indicated that there may
be a change in the state law (it is being researched by the Finance Committee) which
may require a change in the LEPFA written investment policy.
Finance Committee Chair Sinadinos moved that the independent Auditors' report and
the accompanying management letter for the period ending June 30, 1998 be received
as published.
MOTION: Commissioner Ristow SECOND: Commissioner McGuire Motion
Carried
Chairman Janssen thanked the Finance Committee for their work on the financials and
the audit and for taking the time to review the information and ask questions. Janssen
noted it is important for Committee members and the Board to review the financials
and that as we move ahead with major issues, understanding our financial history
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
September 29, 1998
and future is going to impact future decisions. He noted the Auditor was very
complimentary of Marian and her staff for their work and cooperation in providing
information and answers, and noted that the organization seemed to be very organized.
Chair Janssen also recognized Tad and Michael for their planning and implementation
of events.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter noted a tentative agreement has been reached with the
Maintenance Workers and we are waiting for the Union to ratify the contract. In
regard to the Stagehands we continue to await their proposal and it is agreed that a
mediator would be best in an effort to move things along. Peter reported we are
awaiting a counter offer from the Facility Workers and in regard to the Technical
Services agreement, we continue to meet with them.
2. Lansing City Market: Peter reported the August rental revenue is up about$1,067 over
August 1997 and occupancy is at 79%, which is about 19% over August 1997. In
regard to recruitment efforts, we have been successful in signing several short-term
leases and we have been working on several annual vendors including produce
growers, and a potted herbs, soaps, potpourri and oils vendor. Peter noted in July and
August, compared to last year, things are moving quite well and the numbers are
looking good. Special events held included a scaled down version of Harvest Fest,
which was due in part to the vendors, who felt our promotional dollars should be
devoted to more long-term promotions, to be spent over the year. Activities included
rides and musical entertainment. On August 19 we assisted the Capital Area United
Way and the PSD with the "Annual Day of Caring" by allowing them to use the
parking lot as the central gathering space, along with allowing them to borrow tables
and chairs.
3._ Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported since the last Board meeting a number of events have
taken place including the final monthly movie - "The Truman Show," which drew
approximately 1200-1500 people. On September 12 we also hosted a MSU versus
Notre Dame baseball game on the same day as the football game and we drew
approximately 500 people. He noted overall the MSU baseball games have generated
dollars, however, there may be a push on the part of MSU to play less games at the
stadium next year due to the "competitive advantage" it gives opponents coming into
Oldsmobile Park, because the teams get excited about playing at a nice facility. He
stated that these events generate positive dollars to LEPFA's bottom line. Peter noted
further that he may ask Board members to assist with the discussions with MSU should
this effort gain momentum. Peter reported he continues to meet with Tom Dickson
regarding utilities and most recently has asked a third party to submit a proposal for
third party mediation/arbitration. The Box Office expansion is completed at the Park
and will be used for "Fright Night." "Fright Night" will consist of 11 days this year
(compared to 8 last year) and it will start on the October 9th weekend, and will be
open Fridays and Saturdays, with the days expanding to Thursday through Saturday
the week before Halloween and Wednesday through Saturday Halloween week. Last
year over 10,000 people attended "Fright Night;" this year we hope to attract at least
the same amount of attendees given that our advertising and sponsorship dollars have
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 7
September 29, 1998
increased over last year as well. There will be a "Kreepy Kids" area and an adult area
similar to last year and admission is $4 for adults and$1 for kids, with the hours from
8:00 p.m. - 11:OOp.m. Similar to last year we will utilize service groups and high
school drama groups for the actors. Peter encouraged Board members to visit the new
and improved "Fright Night." Peter reported we are working with the Lugnuts on
winterizing the stadium as well as annual maintenance items including painting the
dugouts, fixing lights, and cleaning the upper beams in the concourse. Peter noted a
recent article in the paper indicated the numbers are down at the stadium. He clarified
that the Lugnuts generated around 489,000 in paid attendance, however, per cap
spending was up this year. The amounts the team and the City earned are in-line with
last year; so while paid attendance was down, increased per caps helped bridge the
gap.
4. Lansing Center: During the month of July the Lansing Center hosted 18 events, which
equated to 27 event days, with approximately 4,500 attendees, equaling 540 room
nights for an economic impact of approximately $150,000. During the month of
August the Lansing Center hosted 29 events, which equated to 35 event days, with
approximately 13,000 attendees, equaling to 640 room nights for an economic impact
of approximately $300,000.
Peter noted there were 67 bookings in August including the MSU Native American
Student Organization for February 1999, which is a Native American celebration; in
addition we booked four (4) weddings. CVB bids responded to include the Michigan
Greenhouse Growers Expo for 2001. Peter noted that in this month's Lansing City
Magazine we have placed a full-page, four-color ad in an attempt to capture additional
meetings and banquets. LEPFA also participated in the Chamber Golf Outing and we
will be exhibiting at the annual Chamber Trade Fair.
Lansing Center highlights during August included the David Ferguson wedding in all
eight sections of the ballroom, which was one of the largest weddings we have hosted
with 500 guests and the Reverend Jesse Jackson marrying the couple. August 29 and
30 we hosted the Michigan Democratic State Convention; September 11-13 the
Christian Believers United (500-550 attendees)were in house; September 16-18 the
State Bar of Michigan - State Convention (400 attendees)was held; September 19
Diamond Quest met with 3000 attendees; September 22 - Michigan Association of
School Boards met with 900 people attending; September 23 - Michigan High School
Athletic Association hosted over 1200 Coaches, Athletic Directors and students; and
on September 22-24 - Life Changers Christian Centers attracted over 1000 people.
Commissioner Butler asked Peter to provide feedback on a conference that Peter and
Tad attended. Peter reported that recently he and Tad attended the IFEA conference
in Denver, which is a conference pertaining to festivals and events. Peter noted it was
very beneficial in terms of the events we are hopeful to attract or host at Oldsmobile
Park. Peter reported attending the conference was beneficial in that it was based on
how to establish a major festival or event and overall it was a great conference.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 8
September 29, 1998
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler reported that he and Peter continue to meet regarding
Personnel issues and personnel progress, i.e. a supervisor's position has been filled with a
senior, experienced individual from the outside and the person brings a great deal of
experience, accordingly. Butler noted we are still looking for two (2) facility workers and
indicated if Board members know of anyone that would be interested in this area to let staff
know. Negotiations are still on going with the various bargaining units as reported by Peter.
Mr. Butler reported the Personnel Committee met on August 27 and they recommended and
approved the maximum payment for the CEO in terms of the yearly bonus and letters were
sent out to the Commissioners noting the recommendation. Evaluation forms were mailed out
for input and feedback dealing with the CEO's evaluation. Butler noted the Executive
Committee and the Personnel Chair will conduct the evaluation. To-date several evaluation
forms have been returned, but Mr. Butler reported that he has not received all of them. Overall
Chair Butler indicated all is well in terms of the personnel morale and he noted that he had the
opportunity to attend the employee picnic and it was well received by the personnel as a whole.
Chairman Butler stated that a date will be established for Peter's evaluation and will include
the Executive Committee and the Chair of the Personnel Committee.
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
A. Commissioner Ristow: Commissioner Ristow cautioned that the competition is getting tough,
and that the Radisson recently lost three events to the Casino in Mt. Pleasant, and the Capital
Centre is also providing competition as well. Ristow noted that we need to be cognizant of
our long-term goals, and what we want to accomplish to continue to attract business to keep
the Center moving forward. Peter concurred with Mr. Ristow, and noted that we continue to
cooperate with the Radisson, i.e. the Northwestern Band wanted to book space at the
Radisson, they had enough beds, but not meeting space, so we are allowing them to utilize the
Lansing Center's ballrooms, which is a nice example of a cooperative effort. He noted further
that the Capital Centre is going full board to attract any small banquets and/or meetings.
Currently they have plans to build a limited service hotel. Peter noted currently we are
working on direct marketing of meetings and banquets.
B. Commissioner Swanson: Commissioner Swanson noted the City is exploring the refinancing
of the stadium and discussions are on going with National Cities Bank which is the successor
of First of America. He noted it is hoped to have something concluded by the end of the year.
C. Commissioner Butler: Commissioner Butler suggested having a scheduled "Commissioners
Night for Fright Night" and recommended a commendation for Marian, Michael and Tad
based on the outstanding job, not only for the audit, but for the continuing growth and progress
that is being made. Butler commented that getting through an audit with flying colors is
extremely important to any company due to the possibility of exposure. Butler also suggested
presenting a "thank you dinner" for the Commissioners past and present, even if it is co-pay,
in an effort to increase the level of teamwork and camaraderie. He suggested a get together
with spouses and/or significant others.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 9
September 29, 1998
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
Peter referenced a sensitivity with the Tobacco Coalition, he reported about two years ago the
Coalition contacted Peter and Michael Meyers, and they agreed to meet with the Coalition. The
Coalition had met with the City (Dennis Sykes and Bob Swanson's offices) before in an effort to
try to curtail certain activities and signage at Oldsmobile Park. They then pursued the issue at the
Lansing Center, wanting us to curtail smoking, not serve alcohol, and not accept money for
signage from these interests. We informed them that the Lansing Center was a non-smoking
building. Peter and Tad then met with them about a year later because they were upset that our
largest trade show, the Deer and Turkey Spectacular, had 2 of 150 vendors that were offering
sample sizes of Skoal and Coppenhagen and requested we not allow these individuals to offer
samples. We agreed to send a letter to the promoter, but noted that ultimately it was his decision
and copied them on the letter. Peter noted we have not heard from them until recently. Peter noted
he felt this issue was a management decision, but wanted to inform the Board. Peter noted that
when the City met with them a number of years ago, the understanding was that the Lugnuts would
not accept billboard advertising for tobacco and that continues through today.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
Commissioner Sykes noted the initial information contained in the Performing Arts Center report
suggests that there is a significant market in the tri-county area for a facility as introduced several
months ago in a mid Jerm report. The mid-term report suggested a facility with three theaters,
Impression 5 with a lobby and an Art Gallery with classroom space. The Lansing Symphony
Orchestra will be part of the second phase. Financing would include areas outside of Lansing, and
people would like to see the facility as regional or countywide minimally. Sykes cautioned that
such a facility will be expensive to build and operate, and that we will need to educate ourselves
and the public as to what it means to finance such an operation and that it will require a subsidy.
At 8:50 a.m. Commissioner Robert Lee exited the meeting.
Commissioner Butler questioned why the Lansing Symphony was not a part of Phase I? Sykes
responded that the consultants felt that if we built a facility with 1300 to 1500 seats, that currently
the Symphony isn't in a position to provide the number of performances that would be required
for the Symphony to be considered as a major tenant. The report will lay out for the Symphony
the items that they need to work on over the next several years in order to strengthen themselves
and to justify the investment dollars. It is hoped the project will begin next year, but there is a lot
of work to be done i.e. educating people, a campaign, volunteers to educate the public, etc.
At 8:55 a.m. Commissioner Cyril McGuire and Jack Jordan exited the meeting.
Commissioner Swanson noted in regard to the Symphony, it is a matter of financing. Sykes noted
the Symphony is in a difficult position because it is difficult for them to grow in the Wharton
Center. He noted that the study revealed that there are a number of groups in this community that
have been operating out of facilities that are less than they deserve and that there are dozens of
groups have not been exposed to the public at large. A performing arts facility will allow such
groups to grow and the community to be introduced to a large spectrum of entertainment options.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 10
September 29, 1998
Sykes noted the LEPFA Board needs to consider this, what it means to the Authority, and to look
at the report as a major responsibility and difficult decision.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1998 AT 7:30
A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:58 a.m. the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
OCTOBER 27, 1998 MINUTES
CITY CLERK
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Charles Janssen called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the Lansing
Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Cyril McGuire,Donald Ristow,
Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: James Butler, Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Robert Lee, Kate McNeely,
and Dennis Sykes (Ex-officio).
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan and Jim Smiertka - City of Lansing.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 29 1998:
The minutes of September 29, 1998 stand approved as provided. Motion: Commissioner Ristow
Second: Commissioner McGuire, motion carried.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. NHL Hockey Rink: Chairman Janssen reported that it has recently come to our attention that
there is a portable NHL hockey rink available for purchase, and as such the possibility of
LEPFA participating in a closed bid was discussed at the October 27 Finance Committee
meeting; Peter will comment further on this issue. Janssen indicated that he will make a
motion later in the meeting that the Board authorize the Executive Committee to do some due
diligence between now and Thursday, and if they are satisfied that a good basis exists for us
to bid on this equipment that the Executive Committee would have authority to direct staff to
make such a bid. Janssen noted the Finance Committee felt this was the best way to the bid
process.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following draft financial
statements as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending September 30,1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year by 9% or$1,596.
Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 65% or $5,906. Total Operating Expense
decreased by 12% or $4,568 over last year. Net Income after the city contribution as
of September 30 is $24,502 and Net Income after depreciation is $25,317. Internal
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
October 27, 1998
Revenue coverage of expenses is 49%, last month it was 54%, and last year it was
46%. Sinadinos noted Building Rental is up considerably at $5,140 compared to
$2,124 last year. Total Operating Income is less compared to last year for the current
period; however, the quarterly parking fees have not been collected. Total Operating
Expenses for year-to-date are less than last year($33,355 compared to $37,923). Our
Operating Loss is $3,000 ahead of last year ($18,322 compared to $21,294). The
current ratio is 7.21, last month it was 3.88, and last year it was 6.01. Our Equity in
Number of Days of Operation is 281.53, compared to 304.81 last month and 169.81
last year. Sinadinos noted our Total Cash Position compared to last year is up
$103,000 compared to$72,000. Accounts Receivable are down compared to last year,
Furniture and Fixtures are higher than last year due to the purchase of furniture this
year ($11,000 compared $2,399). Total assets are at$117,076 compared to $83,723.
Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 10% or $1,420 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 7% or$2,533. Our Operating Income Loss year-to-date
is ($18,322) which is $4,000 ahead of budget.
b. Oldsmobile Park - September 30 1998• Chair Sinadinos noted Total Operating
Expense increased by 14% or $6,623. Net Income after city contribution as of
September 30, 1998 is $4,275 and Net Income after depreciation is $12,968.
Sinadinos noted Event Revenues are at$3,011 for the current period, Event Expenses
are at $992, resulting in an Event Income of $2,019. On the Balance Sheet, our
current ratio is 1.52, last month it was 1.43 and last year it was 1.42. Our Equity in
Number of Days Operation is currently 354.88, last month it was 339.20 and last year
it was 223.97. Our cash position is $211,991 this year, as compared to $188,000 last
year; and the current Total Event Development Fund is $103,428 compared to
$45,256 last year. Accounts Receivables are higher than the prior year due to renewal
of the suites ($69,000 compared to $19,000). Actual Operating Expenses are under
budget by 20% or $13,693. Sinadinos noted Total Operating Expenses for the current
period are $16,804 under compared to budget($16,804 compared to $23,848) as well
as for year-to-date ($54,077 compared to $67,770).
c. Lansina Center- September 30 1998• Total Operating Revenue is less than last year
by 18% or $138,867. Total Building Rental is less than last year by 31% or$58,054.
Total Operating Expense decreased by 1% or $11,365 from last year. Net Income
after city contribution is ($162,258) and is ($117,224) after depreciation. Internal
Revenue coverage of expenses is 65%, 51% last month and was 78% last year. Chair
Sinadinos reminded the Board that once again we are comparing this year to a year
when Pentecostal Keralites and Oldsmobile Celebration were in house. Building
Rental is down $66,452 for the current period, compared to $78,095 last year. Food
and Beverage is up $184,000 compared to $138,000 but is down for year-to-date
($346,000 compared to $434,000) last year. Equipment Rental is up for the current
period, as well as for year-to-date. Overall for the current period we are up$326,985
in Operating Income compared to$269,000 last year. Under Operating Expenses, we
are down slightly year-to-date $960,000 compared to $971,000, Sinadinos noted
under other "Non-Operating Revenue" a $6,000 gain in assets is noted which is the
sale of food and beverage equipment. Our current ratio is 1.59, last month it was
1.50 and last year it was 1.51. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 52.65,
last month it was 60.57 and last year it was 52.01. On the Balance Sheet it was noted
that our cash position is slightly under last year, $46,000 compared to $50,000 last
year.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
October 27, 1998
(Total Cash is $335,500 compared to $332,500 for last year). Total Restricted Assets
are $398,500 compared to $302,500 last year. Accounts Receivables are down
$255,838 compared to$375,826 last year. Unearned Revenue —Advance Rent, which
is an indicator of future business, is becoming more in line with the prior year at
$224,232 compared to$266,190 last year. Our Total Current Liabilities are less than
the prior year $482,000 compared to $552,000. Long Term Debt is decreasing
$51,000 compared to $98,000. Our Actual Operating Revenues are under budget by
5% or $32,982; Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 9% or $99,621.
Building Rental for year-to-date is under compared to last year, $130,000 compared
to $192,000; Food and Beverage is under budget, $346,000 compared to $355,000.
Total Operating Income is less than budget, $613,752 compared to $646,734 which
is about$32,000 under budget for year-to-date. The Operating Income Loss is better
than budget ($346,652) compared to budget ($413,337).
Chair Sinadinos moved that the monthly financials for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing
City Market and the Lansing Center for the period ending September 30, 1998 be
received as published and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be
approved. MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND: Commissioner Ristow, the
motion carried.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter noted a tentative agreement has been reached, but not ratified with
the Maintenance Workers, due to internal issues and the Stagehands group will
probably go to mediation. Peter noted mediation has been used previously with the
Facility Workers and Fine Host employees. In regard to the Stagehands, we continue
to await their proposal. He indicated internally, there may be changes within the
Union hierarchy, and it is anticipated that Michael Wright will be the incoming
President (he is a former LEPFA employee). In regard to the Technical Services
group, we continue to await their response, but it more than likely that it will go to
mediation also. Peter noted that it appears that our offers are reasonable which is
leading to frustration on our part (we are offering 2.5% to 3.5%) and they are
requesting anywhere from 10% to 25% annually, which we feel is excessive.
2. Lansing_City Market• Peter reported the September rental revenue is up about$2,150
over September, 1997 which is a 70% increase; occupancy is at 84%, which is about
36% over September 1997. Regarding recruitment, the owners of "Bloomin Acres"
have agreed to sign a years lease at the Market (they sell herbs, soaps, potpourri, etc.)
and already operate a successful operation at the Royal Oak Market. We have also
negotiated a year lease with Nancy Armstrong of"Current Roadside Farms" (she will
sell raspberries, jams and possibly exotic fruits) and she also operates a booth at the
Royal Oak Market. We continue our efforts to attract a vendor that will sell produce
throughout the year. Regarding events, we are working on "Silver Bells in the City"
and hope to equal if not better last year's presentation; we will provide cider and
cookies throughout the weekend compared to one day last year. Santa and clowns will
be on site as well as a new and improved gingerbread house, music will be provided
and the Market will be decorated.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
October 27, 1998
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter noted utility arbitration discussions continue with the Lugnuts.
Recently, an attorney was selected only to discover that attorney has a potential
conflict in that it was the firm that was used by the Lugnuts to bring a suit against the
City(regarding taxes). Peter noted he was told that a written waiver was granted but
he has not received a copy of it to-date, and if the waiver is not received, they plan
to move to the next individual on the list to move the issue forward. Jim Smiertka
noted that the firm selected is an adversary of the City and represents other individuals
in suits against the City as well.
Peter noted "Fright Night" continues to be our main focus at the ballpark, it began on
Friday, October 10 and through this past weekend in excess of 6,000 people have
attended, which leads to our goal of 10,000 patrons or more. "Fright Night" will open
this Wednesday and will continue through Saturday night(Halloween hours are 8:00
p.m. through midnight). Peter noted the feedback we have had this far has been
extremely positive, however, from time-to-time we receive complaints, i.e. on
Saturday we had to cut the line at 10:05 p.m. because it was too long, and the actors
are scheduled to leave at 11:00 p.m. Peter noted we received a copy of the Lugnuts
schedule for next year, and it appears that we will have less premium dates as
compared to last summer and will probably need help from the City regarding MSU
Baseball games, Peter noted the MSU vs. U of M dates are not available at the
stadium this year.
4. Lansing Center: During September the Lansing Center hosted 26 events, which
equated to 39 event days, with approximately 14,000 attendees, equaling 680 room
nights for an economic impact of approximately $420,000. In comparison to 1997,
while we were down in event days, number of events, and our attendance was down,
our room nights and economic impact and our net revenue was up which again
indicates the importance of the impact of the different types of events. CVB bids
confirmed for the month of September include the "Hearts at Home" annual state
conference which has been confirmed for 1999 and 2000-2 which will bring over
2,200 people to the facility annually.
Peter noted during the month of September there were 57 bookings created by the
Sales Department including MarketPro Computers which is a computer show that
plans to host four or five shows in the building. CVB bids responded to during
August and September include: The Church of the Living God International and their
decision is anticipated in November and would be held in 2000 and 2001 with an
estimated 1500 attendees. Sales staff also participated in the Chamber's Annual
Tradeshow, which generated a number of potential leads for holiday parties, including
the local Kroger stores. The Sales Department continues to follow up with
telemarketing for the holidays, including a flier to the Trade Fair participants, which
is compiled from the ad in the most recent issue of Lansing City Limits magazine.
Lansing Center highlights during September include hosting the Greenhouse Growers;
Diamond Quest in October which attracted 1300 people to the facility; Mid-Michigan
Antiquarian Book and Paper Show with 1500 attendees; the Michigan Interscholastic
Press Association which had 1500 high schools students interested in Journalism from
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
October 27, 1998
across the State; Michigan Optometric Association with 600 attendees; Lansing State
Journal Career Expo which was a first time event with approximately 1000 attendees;
Michigan Republican State Committee— the Governor's 50''Birthday Celebration had
over 800 people attend; Diocese of Lansing Common Conference drew over 2000
attendees; the Lansing School District had 1600 District Teachers and Administrators
attended an in-service day; the Michigan Council of Teachers of Mathematics will
return in 2000 and will not be here in 999 because they will be in Grand Rapids and
are unable to break their contract. This week we will be hosting the J. Crew Clothing
Sale, which is the third year for this very popular event.
Upcoming events in November include the Michigan Republicans Victory Election
Night on November 3; November 13-15 the "Women's Show" will take place;
November 20-21 the Toughman Contest will be held for the third year; and November
25-29 the annual "Festival of Trees" will return.
5. Ice Skating Rink Bid: Peter reported he shared the following portable ice rink
information at the October 27 Finance Committee meeting. The portable NHL ice
rink and ice system was discovered in an advertisement in an industry-related
publication and is for sale by a group in Kentucky. Peter reported he and Michael
Meyers have spent a great deal of time discussing the systems condition and worth
with the manufacturers as well as the owners, in light of our commitment to pursuing
ice skating at Oldsmobile Park, and our desire to be more in control of making ice as
opposed to the natural ice system which we have had for the past two years. The
system was new in 1990-91 and was last used in May 1998 by the group in Kentucky.
The reason for selling the system was that the team that played there moved to Florida
and the team they recruited is in a higher league and they are going to build a
permanent facility for that team. In 1990-91 the system cost $350,000, and the
manufacturer currently estimates the value of the system at $50,000; in discussions
with the manufacturer, they indicated they would sell a good used system at$160,000
and the manufacturer also felt it would cost another $10,000 to $20,000 to get the
system up and running. Peter noted therein lies our due diligence/analysis which we
will continue over the next several days. Staff would like to meet with the Board's
Executive Committee over the next several days; prior to the sealed bid due date of
Friday at 2:30 p.m. (in Kentucky). Staff will continue due diligence and will explore
any and all financing options, as well as continue to explore other used rink
possibilities. Peter requested the Board's approval and permission to move forward
over the next two days to put together due diligence information in an effort to bring
this phase to a conclusion. Chairman Janssen indicated that he did watch the ice rink
video and Peter indicated that the70 minute video is available to any interested Board
members as well.
Chairman Janssen moved the following:
After preliminary investigation, the Finance Committee requests that the Executive
Committee is authorized to review financial information relative to the purchase of this
previously owned NHL hockey rink to be utilized at Oldsmobile Park. Furthermore,
after consideration of financing options, which would include either traditional
financing sources or use of the Event Development Fund or any other financing
sources available, event possibilities, and review; and approval of due
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
October 27,1998
diligence information supplied to us by management, we recommend that the
Executive Committee be granted the authority to approve the submission of a bid by
no later than 2:30 p.m. on October 30, 1998. That bid would not exceed $60,000 and
additional costs of up to $65,000 to be allocated for transportation, maintenance,
utility connections, repairs, related to the installation of the ice system.
MOTION: Commissioner Ristow
Jim Smiertka asked if it is a permanent feature of the stadium, or is it considered
equipment? Peter noted it is a portable system that could be placed in the stadium and
then removed on an annual basis. He also questioned whether or not it is considered
a capital expenditure or equipment and if it requires the Mayor's approval?
Commissioner Swanson indicated he felt it was an expenditure that could qualify either
way and could be considered under "Capital Funds" under its intended use as an ice
skating facility. Swanson noted it is also indicated in the motion that the Authority
investigate other financing options.
SUPPORT: Commissioner McGuire
Commissioner Ristow commented that previously this endeavor (to purchase ice for
Oldsmobile Park) was delayed due to the costs involved, and obviously the endeavors
to do ice skating at Oldsmobile Park have not been the best due to the weather. He
commented that if we are going to do it, we need to do it right or not do it at all and
noted that the rink goes beyond the hockey aspect. Ristow questioned if we can
generate enough revenues to pay for it and noted he believes that we can, because we
could have ice by December 1 and when the weather is below 50' we could still have
ice. Commissioner Ristow indicated he is very supportive of purchasing the system
and indicated that he believes it is a wonderful opportunity.
Peter indicated that currently the thought is to bid around $50,000 and we may decide
not to bid that much, but the parameters are to point everyone in the direction that we
are headed and in the next day and a half to two days, with the approval of the
resolution, we will have a fair amount of work to do but we see this as a good
potential and wanted to bring it to the Board's attention. Jim Smiertka questioned if
there is overall policy issue with respect to ice that is available in the overall City?
Peter noted last time he had lunch with the Mayor, he commented about coils in the
stadium, and he noted further that every conversation with the Mayor includes some
discussion on ice skating. Peter noted he always responds indicating that it could be
an expensive proposition, which is not to say that $100,000 - $120,000 isn't an
expensive proposition, but it is less than$350,000 and one of the items we are going
to look at is annual operational costs.
Commissioner Jeffries indicated she voiced her concerns yesterday at the Finance
Committee meeting, however, if the deal falls through, or if the bid weren't accepted,
there would be more time to look at the issues. Currently there wasn't much
information on the maintenance of the rink, how we will finance it, and while she
realizes we are under time constraints because the opportunity has presented itself.
Jeffries requested that the motion be clear in that if the issue is pursued beyond Friday
that the Executive Committee will have to come back to the Board or the Finance
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 7
October 27, 1998
Committee. Peter clarified that over the next several days we are going to pursue
other potential opportunities and would discuss the due diligence information with the
Board.
Commissioner Swanson noted that he felt it is important that in the review that is to
take place this week that we consider the demand for ice time, and in particular to take
a look at the experiences of the Parks Department, in particular Washington Park
where the revenues were not as high as projected due to the ice in the area and
erroneous projections in some regards. Swanson noted also that it is important to take
into consideration that the ice at Oldsmobile Park maybe used for different purposes
as well.
Chair Janssen summarized the motion by noting that the actual authority included in
the motion is for the Executive Committee to approve the submission of a bid that
would not exceed$60,000 after due diligence, which would fall on Management and
that the Executive Committee. Janssen noted the rest of the motion talks about the
additional cost of$65,000 and was included so that the Board would realize that there
are other costs, i.e. installation, etc. Janssen noted if the motion is approved, the
critical part of the motion is that the Executive Committee could authorize the
management team to submit a bid not to exceed $60,000 by Friday.
The motion carried.
D. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
No report.
VII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
A. Commissioner Ristow: Commissioner Ristow reported that the Convention Bureau will moving
on November 13 to their new corporate quarters in "Old Town" and there will be a grand
opening scheduled in March or April.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
No report.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
No report.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1998 AT
7:30 A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:28 a.m, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
NOVEMBER 24, 1998 '
L�
MINUTE
At 7:30 a.in. Chairman Charles Janssen called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room c fjftL0 j CLERK
Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Cyril McGuire, Kate
McNenly, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson (Ex-Officio) and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), Robert Lee, and Dennis Sykes (Ex-officio).
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jim Smiertka — City of Lansing.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
There was no public comment.
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF OCTOBER 27, 1998:
The minutes of October 27, 1998 stand approved as provided. Motion: Commissioner Ristow
Second: Commissioner Sinadinos, motion carried.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
1. NHL Hockey Rink: Chairman Janssen reported that he was appreciative of the work of the
Finance Committee and others on the proposal/bid for the portable ice rink. He explained that
we were not successful with the bid and Peter will discuss this issue further in his report.
2. Upcoming Holiday Parities: Chairman Janssen noted there are two holiday parties that are
upcoming and Peter will review the dates in his report. He invited and encouraged all Board
members to attend the Board Reception and the Employee Christmas Party.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following draft financial
statements as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending October 31,1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year by 11% or
$2,626. Total Building Rental exceeds last year by 53% or $6,944. Total Operating
Expense decreased by 13% or $6,140 over last year. Net Income after the city
contribution as of October 31 is $26,504 and Net Income after depreciation is
$27,665. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 51%, last month it was 49%, and
last year it was 48%. Sinadinos noted Building Rental is up considerably at$20,143
compared to $13,199 last year for an Operating Loss of ($22,594) compared to
($26,108) last year. Our current ratio is 12.35 last month it was 7.21, and last year
it was 3.80. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 299.04, compared to
281.53 last month and 179.87 last year.
Management Staff Meeting
Page 2
November 11, 1998
Actual Operating Revenues are over budget by 3% or $551 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 15% or $7,267. The bottom line is we are ahead of
budget by $9,269.
At 7:35 a.m. Commissioner Denise Wootton entered the meeting.
b. Oldsmobile Park — October 31, 1998: Chair Sinadinos reported Total Operating
Expense increased by 53% or $32,137. Net Income after city contribution as of
October 31, 1998 is $699 and Net Income after depreciation is $12,322. Sinadinos
noted Event Revenues are $57,000 for the current period(due to Fright Night) and the
Maintenance of Facilities amount of $20,000 is for repairs to the service drive at
Oldsmobile Park and under "Other Non-Operating Income — Operating Transfer" the
amount of$16,000 was funds to help pay for the Maintenance of Facilities expense.
The Event Income of $21,707 was applied to the Event Development Fund. Our
current ratio is 1.58, last month it was 1.52 and last year it was 1.53. Our Equity in
Number of Days Operation is currently 300.12, last month it was 354.88 and last year
it was 261.76. Our cash position is up $205,822 compared to$179,273 last year; and
the current Total Event Development Fund is $125,135. Accounts Receivables are
$78,068 due to $40,000 in suite renewal, this also appears under "Liabilities and
Equities — Accounts Payable." Actual Operating Expenses are under budget by 1%
or $984. Total Operating Expenses year to date are just under budget at $92,920
compared to $93,905. In the final analysis comparing revenues to expenses we are
under budget at$698 compared to ($3,999).
At 7:40 a.m. James Butler, Jim Smiertka and Robert Swanson entered the meeting.
c. Lansing Center- September 30, 1998: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year
by 7% or $90,091. Total Building Rental is less than last year by 16% or $51, 452.
Total Operating Expense increased by 4% or $53,322 from last year. Net Income
after city contribution is ($32,857) and is $25,021 after depreciation. Internal Revenue
coverage of expenses is 82%, 65% last month and was 92% last year. Building Rental
is up for the current period, although it is down year to date. Food and Beverage is
$297,000 compared to $299,000. Total Operating Income is $546,000 compared to
$497,000. Because we are more fully staffed salaries and wages are up $130,623
compared to$123,460 for the current period and year to date. Utilities are up slightly
for the current period but down for year to date. Our current ratio is 1.85, last month
it was 1.59 and last year it was 1.78. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is
58.93, last month it was 52.65 and last year it was 63.79. Our Total Cash position
for the current year is $32,739 compared to $143,947 (last year at this time we had
received the subsidy). However, our Unearned Revenue — Advanced Rent is in line
$211,071 compared to $227,517 which is an indication of future business. Our actual
Operating Revenues are over budget by 4% or $43,317 and Actual Operating
Expenses are under budget by 6% or $90,460. Building Rental is under budget for
year to date $272,000, compared to $347,000. Food and Beverage is up $644,000
compared to $617,000. Total Operating Income year to date is up by $43,000.
Salaries and Wages are down due to not being fully staffed, $381,000 compared to
$451,000. Utilities are less than budget$183,000 compared to $196,000. Bottom
line, Excess Revenues over Expenses — overall we are ahead of budget by $140,096.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
November 24, 1998
Commissioner Ristow complimented management and the Board for bringing carpet
in house as it has been a success. Chair Sinadinos moved that the monthly financials
for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing City Market and the Lansing Center for the period
ending October 31, 1998 be received as published and further that the monthly
expenses for each entity be approved. MOTION: Commissioner Sinadinos SECOND:
Commissioner McGuire, the motion carried.
Marian Bryant noted management and the Finance Committee is working on
investment policies and will bringing issues before the Finance Committee and the
Board in December. She reported that staff has met with the City and has samples of
the City's, the State's and Lansing Community College's investment policies. She
noted we need separate policies for the general fund and the fiduciary funds. Peter
reported that the intent is to forward information to the Finance Committee in advance
of the Finance Committee meeting and following the Committee's approval, have them
bring the information before the Board for approval. Peter noted that the policies need
to be in place prior to January 1.
Commissioner Swanson noted that the City Council passed investment policies last
evening and LEPFA is subject to the policies. Marian noted we have been discussing
the policies with Doug Rubley and our policies will be in line with the City's policies.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter noted the Maintenance Workers have ratified their agreement and
significant progress has been made over the past two meetings with the Facility
Workers with the help of a mediator. Peter reported now that an agreement has been
reached with the Maintenance Workers, attention will be focused on the Tech
Services, and their issues mainly focus on wages. Management has offered 3%
annually to Tech Services with an option of 2% merit for the Tech Services Manager
and they want more (this unit is comprised of two people). The Stagehands agreement
will probably be reviewed last and Peter noted issues regarding this bargaining groups'
appearance and quality of their work have been raised, and the President has been
very receptive to our issues. Peter noted a faction of the bargaining unit will not allow
Dirk to negotiate for them and this has been discussed with our Labor Attorney and
the Arbitrator. As such, negotiations will subside until the first of January when the
new leadership takes office (Michael Wright, a former LEPFA employee will be the
President, as he will run unopposed).
2. Lansing City Market: Peter reported the October rental revenue was up about$3,000
over October 1997 which is a 122% increase. Occupancy is at 87%, which is about
48% over last year. It appears that revenue and occupancy will stay strong through
the winter months, and overall the Market is doing very well, especially in comparison
to last year. The improvement was attributed to the Marketing Department's efforts
under Tad Carper and Mark Ter Haar and many vendors have decided to stay on
throughout the winter. Regarding recruitment efforts we have signed on Scott Shea
as a year round vendor and it is hoped that he will return in the spring. Events at the
Market include Silver Bells in the City, which took place on Friday. It was a very
successful event, Santa and clowns were on hand, cider and cookies were served, and
Fabianos made candy canes. The two musical groups were the Oldtimers String Band
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
November 24, 1998
and the Really Shaky Band. Peter reported the Market was crowded until about 9:15
p.m. and Councilmember Joan Bauer was on hand and commented on the crowd.
3. Oldsmobile Park: Peter reported he continues to attempt to begin utility
mediation/arbitration with the Lugnuts and he reminded the Board that the original
attorney selected had a potential conflict (as noted by the City) and was outlined in a
memo to Tom Dickson which also requested that they agree on one of the other
attorneys originally suggested. Peter noted he will meet with Tom Dickson today and
this will be one of the issues addressed. "Fright Night" attracted over 12,000 patrons
to Oldsmobile Park, which is about 2000 more that last year. In addition, we netted
close to double the revenue from this event compared to last year which helped
contribute to the Event Development Fund as outlined by Charlie Sinadinos in the
Finance Committee report. Peter noted this event will take place in the future.
Peter stated that LEPFA continues to work with the City through Bob Swanson's
efforts in dealing with MSU to secure college baseball dates as possible. Peter noted
there was an article in the Lansing State Journal indicating that the Lugnuts schedule
is the most favorable to-date, however, this limits LEPFA events but we will endeavor
to present our "staple events" at the stadium.
4. Lansing Center: During October the Lansing Center hosted 40 events, which equated
to 66 event days, with approximately 25,000 attendees, equaling 2,300 room nights
for an economic impact of approximately $860,000. In comparison to 1997, while we
were down 6 events and 10 event days, our building rental was up by $5,600 as well
as our extra charges, which again indicates how important a mix of events is to the
efficiency and profitability of the facility.
In October there were 108 bookings created by the Sales Department including the re-
booking of Mid-Michigan Antiquarian Book and Paper Dealers in 2000, and the
Michigan High School Athletic Association— Sportsman Summit in 2000. We were
successful in securing the 1999 Okemos High School Prom, which was previously
held at the Kellogg Center. CVB convention bids responded to in the month of
October include Michigan Republican Annual State Convention in 2000.
Lansing Center November highlights include the American Diabetes Association
Diabetes Expo which is a first time event with about 450 attendees on November 1;
November 3 the Michigan Republican State Committee meet with over 700 attendees;
we were the host for election night and a number of candidates used the Center for
their campaign headquarters including the Governor. November 4-6 the Council of
Michigan Foundations used the entire facility for their first time event at the Lansing
Center and 1300 attendees (largest amount of attendees for this group ever) were on
hand to hear speakers Desmund Tutu and Donna Shalala. November 6 the Mid-
Michigan Medical Society met attracting over 400 people. The United Farm Workers
— Caesar Chavez Celebration Rally Dance was held on November 6 hosting 700
attendees. The Women's Show was held on November 13-15 (this is the third year
for this event) which was sponsored by the Lansing State Journal, L&L Food Centers
and TV6 and featured "Outstanding Women Outstanding Times" luncheon prior to the
opening of the event, attendance was approximately 4300 people.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
November 24, 1998
The Annual Toughman Contest was held on November 20 and 21 in Halls A and B
with approximately 2000 attendees. Sunday, November 22 the Model Railroad Club
held its annual event in Hall C. Upcoming events include the Festival of Trees, and
the Management Staff/Board Reception will be held on December 10 in the
Governor's Room beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the Staff Parry is slated for December
15.
Jim Smiertka questioned if it is ever possible to operate the City Market without a
subsidy and if not what is its purpose, i.e. an attraction for business or other
purposes? He noted further that LEPFA may want to be prepared to make a
recommendation to City Council during budget preparations. Peter noted since LEPFA
took over the Lansing City Market, the subsidy was reduced by $50,000 last year (it
was $125,000) and our analysis is that 100% annual occupancy would only help
decrease the subsidy slightly The reality is that we would not break even unless there
is a significant shift in the annual/monthly rental rate. He noted as a part of the
Chairman's Special Report/ Study on the Market two years ago, it was noted that we
would give the market a specific number of years and then collectively make a
decision (and the City needs to play a significant role in that decision).
Smiertka indicated his point was not political, however having seen the Market evolve
over the past five (5) years and noting further that LEPFA was brought in to present
a more business-like approach. Smiertka felt City Council may be interested in
knowing at some point in time whether or not this works based on facts. Peter
indicated while he was not on board when the decision was made to have LEPFA
manage the Market, he believed the decision was made in part to have the issue less
encumbered by the political process, which has happened. Peter noted unless there
is drastic movement in the rental structure, break even is unlikely
Tad Carper commented that the Market's development is a long process and is
comparable to Special Event development at Oldsmobile Park but is even slower and
it will take several years before the Market is able to operate independently. Currently
there is a higher spirit of cooperation among the vendors and the possibility of rental
increases has been discussed, however, there are few vendors that feel that the rent
should be designed so that the Market pays for itself and Commissioner Denise
Wootton is one of the few that see it from a business perspective. Commissioner
Wootton noted that she has raised this issue at the Vendor Meetings noting that it
would be better for the vendors in the long run if the City was not involved, but the
Vendors feel that they are entitled to the subsidy (a waiting list may change their
position).
Smiertka noted his point was to note that after two years of LEPFA management of
the Market, Council will probably ask questions, i.e. will this ever be a viable
business enterprise? Peter noted we will be prepared to answer questions.
Commissioner Butler noted in reference to the establishment of LEPFA, the City
Market and politics will always go hand in hand because of the sentiments.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
November 24, 1998
Butler also noted that the other part of the study is that we would deal with investment
marketing, which requires that you invest a certain amount of time before you can see
a return. Other considerations are the services that it renders and the population that
it serves which would be the constituents who would be extremely vocal in reference
to its historical and cultural impact. He noted further that there are many agencies that
are in this City that are not self-sufficient, especially when dealing with cultural and
historical types of events and quality of life. Butler noted these are things to be
considered and it will be a political football.
Chair Janssen indicated that we want to be cautious because we want to be supportive
of our vendors who have made a significant commitment and while he realized that
it was not the intent of the question, he noted we will have to review the issues,and
the report will be a long thought out process; he noted further that it would be helpful
if Council would indicate their questions and the type of report that they would like
regarding the Market. Janssen noted the land issue will help to pull some of the
decision making and many of us feel that it will be the highest/best use issue for that
property, not necessarily related to any type of use and it will be a difficult decision.
Commissioner Swanson noted that none of the three LEPFA facilities operate without
a subsidy, and for the time are not capable of operating without a subsidy. The issue
becomes what is the public purpose in all of the facilities. Swanson noted in regard
to budgeting, it is going to be a very tight budget, as we put it together and the
assessment increases under Proposal A will only go up by 1.56% which will extremely
constrain property taxes and they are not sure what they will do for revenue sharing.
The issue of the overall subsidy the Lansing Center is a bigger target as the Council
looks at putting the budget together and considers how things ought to be calculated
as a business and there were discussions concerning this last year and there will be
discussions again this year.
Peter noted last year's budget was 9% less than the prior year and it is our goal to turn
in a budget that will more than likely be under $500,000 this year. Last year we did
a good job in meeting the City's goals and objectives and we will endeavor to do the
same again this year.
Commissioner Butler noted in reference to Peter's report indicating that attendance
was down and revenue was up at the Lansing Center, and that in his opinion this is
great and comes from creative revenue generating activities and when you gain
revenue it puts you in a position to be able to lower your budget. He also noted that
many of the investment ventures are paying off, i.e. "Fright Night" which has grown
by leaps and bounds and as long as we can continue in that vein, that will help to
decrease the subsidy which is our primary purpose and is what we continue to face as
we try to run this as a business.
Smiertka clarified that his question was really a simple one in that we have had the
Market for two years, City Council has put it in the business perspective, and now do
we believe at the end of two years that it will be a go and can you or can you not make
a profit? Chair Janssen thanked Mr. Smiertka for the question. Commissioner Butler
noted that this issue is a part of the Long Range Planning Committee - Strategic Plan
and was reviewed once before and will be reviewed again.
Management Staff Meeting
Page 7
November 24, 1998
Commissioner Cyril McGuire indicated that he felt the discussion was good and the
issue is something that cannot be avoided. McGuire noted as a Board member, from
a political standpoint if there is a decision to be made it is going to come from the
City.
5. Ice Skating Proposal and Summary Peter reported at last month's meeting the Board
authorized the Executive Committee to review the ice skating rink issue with more due
diligence which was done over a two-day period. Staff then met with the Executive
Committee. We made a bid and but did not get the system because all the bids were
rejected by the committee. Peter reported the state of Kentucky owned the rink and
sold it to the City of Louisville who had a system that needed to be replaced. Peter
questioned what they were looking for in terms of a bid, and they indicated they were
looking for a bid of$100,000 to$90,000 and all bids submitted were between$40,000
- $50,000 lower than what they had anticipated. He noted we will move forward with
our natural ice skating rink and will continue to bring any further opportunities to the
Board's attention.
Commissioner Swanson noted City Council has passed a resolution on how to
maximize ice skating at Oldsmobile Park and possibly may provide funding for ice-
skating.
At 8:28 a.m. Jim Smiertka left the meeting
VII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler III reported that he and Peter continue to meet between
meetings to discuss personnel issues. Butler noted at this time all salary bonuses and salary
administration has been addressed and as indicated earlier, negotiations are on going with the
Union. Also there are issues with Tom Dickson that need to be addressed dealing with our
responsibilities versus Tom's responsibilities, and Peter continues to have on-going dialog with
Tom Dickson as well. Chair Butler reported all evaluation forms have been received for input into
the CEO's annual evaluation which will be conducted by the Executive Committee. Butler noted
the Personnel Committee will also meet to discuss the CEO's contract, which will expire in
June1999. Upcoming dates to remember include December 10 which is the LEPFA Board
Holiday Reception and December 15, which is the LEPFA Staff Party.
Commissioner Butler asked Commissioner Wootton what the Vendor's feedback regarding Silver
Bells? Commissioner Wootton indicated that the trend noticed was that there weren't as many
people as last year (due to the weather), but the people that were there spent money.
VIII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
A. Commissioner Wootton: Commissioner Wootton noted at some point Market vendor rent has
to increase and one issue that will make it more palatable for the vendors would be a resolution
to the parking problem. Wootton noted once the Shiawassee access is closed business
decreases and she cannot stress enough what a pinch it is on their pocketbook when they pay
the same amount of rent daily and the City arbitrarily decides to close off the access. Tad
explained that there has been informal discussions with a number of people, including the
Parking Authority and everything from trying to redirect traffic to the entrance that is open and
accessible (for example on Lugnut game days when the only way to access the Market is
through Museum
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 8
November 24,1998
Drive entrance) to having a parking attendant acting as a gatekeeper has been discussed.
Commissioner Wootton noted part of the problem is that there is no signage and just the
parking attendant is a deterrent. Commissioner Butler indicated that this issue needs to be
addressed and brought back to the Board for a better understanding of what we are trying to
do to address the issue. He noted this is not good business under any circumstances.
Commissioner Wootton noted Lisa and Mark have had on-going discussions with the Parking
Authority. She noted she felt an attendant at the lots would be better than no notice and a chain
and an attendant with a sign is better than a chain, which creates a barrier. Wootton noted she
brought this issue up in light of the discussion regarding raising the Vendor rent, and indicated
that this issue is a big vendor issue.
B. Chairman Janssen: Chair Janssen noted the staff did a very good job on evaluating the ice
skating proposal at Oldsmobile Park and are prepared to address the issue on another scale and
were pleased with what our projections indicate.
Janssen noted many of the issues discussed today will be addressed by the Long Range
Planning Committee, which will meet after the first of the year and in regard to parking
Janssen noted that he had the opportunity to attend a meeting with our staff and with the
Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce after their tradeshow and found that parking is a
major issue. The fact that we don't control the parking is an issue that our Long Range
Planning Committee will have to consider and all the sub-parts of that issue and make a
recommendation. He explained that the issue is that we cannot address parking staff issues,
we cannot immediately address parking customer complaints, and cannot offer clients
incentives regarding parking and some flexibility is needed.
Peter noted parking is not a new issue and the sensitivity comes from the client's perspective
and parking becomes another step. In order to run our facilities "like a business" we need to
explore the topic further. Swanson noted there is no reason that the Parking System and
LEPFA can't work together, and Tad noted there is a high level of discussions occurring with
the Parking Authority on a weekly if not daily basis and the issue is from the client's
perspective. Peter noted that the positive dialog with parking has increased a hundred fold
within the past three years, however, perception being 99% of the rule, the client wonders
why we cannot address the issue and if it fell under our domain we are then totally
responsible. Commissioner Butler noted his feeling is that if its dealing with a customer and
if it is an internal issue, it should be seamless, to the extent that if you are not on the same
page and not focusing in the same direction, it doesn't matter, to the extent that it is good
customer satisfaction and we can work together to see the issue through. Tad noted we
understand the dynamics and sensitivities associated with any particular event and the parking
authority cannot be expected to understand the nuances of every single day of operation and
the events in the building, as well as how parking transfers into the equation.
Commissioner McGuire noted with all the discussion in mind, staff is going to have to sit with
whomever makes the decisions and negotiations and get it done. Butler noted there is no
reason why the different departments cannot understand the workings of other departments,
so that it is one-stop shopping for the customer.
Chairman Janssen noted the Long Term Planning Committee will look at the issue, and that
when Mayor Hollister took office and Bob Swanson came on board, there were City parking
revenue issues and they have done a phenomenal job getting control of the situation and the
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 9
November 24, 1998
sensitivity of the Mayor's office/cabinet, City Council and giving up control of the system that
they restructured is understood. Janssen noted he has seen parking from a consumer's
perspective and currently it is not seamless. Janssen noted this will be added to the 1999 Long
Range Planning Committee Agenda.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS:
No report.
IX. NEW BUSINESS:
No report.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1998 AT
7:30 A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:46 a.m. the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
DECEMBER 15, 1998
MINUTES
At 7:30 a.m. Chairman Charles Janssen called the meeting to order in the Governor's Room of the Lansing
Center; 333 E. Michigan Avenue; Lansing, Michigan 48933.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: James Butler, Charles Janssen, Ellen Jeffries, Cyril McGuire, Kate
McNeely, Donald Ristow, Charlotte Sinadinos, Robert Swanson(Ex-Officio), Dennis Sykes (Ex-Officio)
and Denise Wootton.
COMMISSIONER EXCUSED: Greg Koessel (Ex-Officio), and Robert Lee.
OTHERS PRESENT: Heidi Brown, Marian Bryant, Tad Carper, Michael Meyers, and Peter Sullivan,
- Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Jack Jordan and Jim Smiertka - City of Lansing.
r
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGENDA:
There were no additional agenda items.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT:
There was no public comment.
r c�
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 24, 1998: r'3
The minutes of November 24, 1998 stand approved as presented. Motion: Commissiondt Ristow
Second: Commissioner McNenly, motion carried.
VI. REPORTS:
A. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
Chairman Janssen noted that the staff is working very hard during the holidays and encouraged
Board members to express their appreciation. Chair Janssen reported his firm held a party at the
Lansing Center (it was very successful) and that he sent a letter to staff and to Fine Host thanking
them for their fine work. He noted that the firm was very pleased with everyone's performance
and that he was proud to be associated with the Center.
Chairman Janssen stated that the Long Range Planning Committee will meet in January.
B. SECRETARY/TREASURER'S REPORT:
1. Monthly Financials: Committee Chair Sinadinos reviewed the following financial statements
as approved by the Finance Committee for the period ending November 30,1998:
a. Lansing City Market: Total Operating Revenue is less than last year by 2% or $537
because we have not received parking revenue. Total Building Rental exceeds last
year by 57% or $9,022. Total Operating Expense decreased by 12% or $7,517 over
last year. Net Income after the city contribution is $22,615 and Net Income after
depreciation is $24,111. Internal Revenue coverage of expenses is 47%, last month
it was 51%, and last year it was 42%. Sinadinos noted Building Rental exceeds last
year's current period as well as year to date at $24,943 compared to $15,921 last
year. Utilities are up slightly for the current period, as well as for the year, for a
bottom line of excess revenues over expenses of$22,614 year to date, compared to
the prior year of$17,635. Our current ratio is 5.25, last month it was 12.35, and last
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 2
December 15, 1998
year it was 3.31. Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 265.39, compared
to 299.04 last month and 151.89 last year. Our Total Cash position is $109,261
compared to $85,895 last year. Total Assets are up for the current year at $121,790
compared to $92,087; and Total Liabilities are down at$21,604 compared to $27,283
last year. Our Operating Revenues are under budget by 20% or $6,164. Actual
Operating Expenses are under budget 9% or $5,972. In comparing year to date to
budget Building Rental is up $24,943 compared to $21,7134. Total Operating
Expenses are ahead of budget by $6,000 and Excess Revenues over expenses are
$22,614 compared to$21,000 for a variance of $4,585 which is close to$9,000 when
including Accounts Receivable.
b. Oldsmobile Park - November 30, 1998: Chair Sinadinos reported Total Operating
Expense increased by 48% or $35,856 due to the allocation of Salaries and Wages.
Net Income after city contribution is $2,637 and Net Income after depreciation is
$17,156. Sinadinos noted Event Revenues are $451 for the current period which
consists of interest accrued on account. Year to date Salaries and Wages are up
considerably due to the allocation to Oldsmobile Park. Utilities are down for the
current period as well as for year to date. Sinadinos noted event expenses of$5,000,
which is the residual from "Fright Night," which was applied to the Event
Development Fund. Our current ratio is 1.77, last month it was 1.58 and last year it
was 1.43. Our Equity in Number of Days Operation is currently 311.27, last month
it was 300.12 and last year it was 260.17. The current Total Event Development Fund
is $120,585 compared to $51,339 the prior year. Accounts Receivable are $75,000,
which includes $40,000 in suite renewal and this also appears in Accounts Payable in
the amount of$50,141 to the City. Total Assets for the current year are $431,550
compared to the prior year of$312,885. Our Operating Expenses are under budget
by 6% or $7,593. Bottom line is excess revenues over expenses is $2,636.97
compared to budget of($9,370.50) for a positive variance of$12,000.
c. Lansing Center- November 30, 1998: Total Operating Revenue exceeds last year by
5% or$78,424. Total Building Rental is less than last year by 12% or$50,019. Total
Operating Expense increased by 8% or$136,097 over last year. Net Income after city
contribution is$70,389 and is $140,316 after depreciation. Internal Revenue coverage
of expenses is 90%, 82% last month and was 93% last year. Building Rental is up for
the current period, although it is down year to date. Food and Beverage is $297,509
compared to $171,500 last year and year to date it is up as well, $942,354 compared
to $905,752. Equipment Rental is up for the current period as well as year to date.
Total Operating Income for the current period is $480,743 compared to $312,228 last
year. Under Operating Expenses - Salaries/Wages are up at $118,180 compared to
$103,439 because we are more fully staffed, although we still have vacant positions.
Operating Income is $63,587 compared to ($22,152) last year. Sinadinos also noted
the Food and Beverage net to the Center is $318,000 compared to last year's
$314,000. Our current ratio is 2.07, last month it was 1.85 and last year it was 2.04.
Our Equity in Number of Days of Operation is 65.24, last month it was 58.93 and last
year it was 66.45. Our Total Cash position for the current year is $34,461 compared
to $29,184. Our Total Restricted Assets are $398,500 compared to $302,500 for the
prior year with Total Assets of$1,322,822 compared to$1,303,710 for last year. Our
current Total Liabilities are $496,000 compared to $474,000. Actual Operating
Revenues are over budget by 10% or $149,057 and Actual Operating Expenses
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 3
December 15, 1998
are under budget by 4% or $71,009. Building Rental is under budget for year to date
at$378,595 compared to$457,055 and as such Building Rental is down by $78,000.
Food and Beverage is up with a variance of$113,000. Equipment Rental is ahead of
budget with a variance of $96,410. Salaries and Wages are ahead of budget by
$64,000. Utilities are down compared to budget by $18,000. Chair Sinadinos moved
that the monthly financials for Oldsmobile Park, the Lansing City Market and the
Lansing Center for the period ending November 30, 1998 be received as published
and further that the monthly expenses for each entity be approved. Motion:
Commissioner Sinadinos Second: Commissioner Ristow, the motion carried.
2. Investment/Financial Policy Review: Marian Bryant reviewed and distributed the
following amendments made by the Finance Committee to the Financial Policies at
their meeting:
a. Investment Policy: As reported at the November 1998 Board Meeting, we are
required by state law to enact an investment policy for our General Operating
Funds by December 31, 1998. Because LEPFA, per the law is defined as a part
of the city, our policy must be consistent with the city's policy (the law and the
city's policy were included in the packet). A draft of the investment policy for the
General Funds is included and we have worked with the city to make sure our
policy is consistent with theirs. The Finance Committee has reviewed and
amended the policy. The only difference in comparison to the city's policy is
under "Objectives/Diversification;" the Finance Committee amended it to allow
for diversification by security type, using different banking institutions or within
one banking institution. We are currently using diversification within one banking
institution.
Commissioner Jeffries suggested the use of the word "or" and the policy will be
amended to reflect the word "or." Commissioner Ristow moved the adoption of
the investment policy as corrected. Support: Commissioner Butler, motion
carried.
b. Investment Policy for the Savings/Thrift Plans - Fiduciary Funds: Under
"Financial Objectives" the Finance Committee deleted the following: "four
percent rate of return over a rolling five year period" because they felt the rate
should not be quoted, and that the rate was low and inconsistent with the mission
statement which indicates we want the highest investment return. In addition, on
page two, under F) Mutual Funds "the financial institution" was changed to
"LEPFA." Jim Smiertka questioned if the "Saving and Thrift Plan" is one of the
items defined under the state statute regarding pensions and if so, does this
investment policy meet the requirements of the statute in terms of investments?
Marian noted per Doug Rubley, state law does not cover it and Bob Swanson
clarified that it was not covered by the law that requires the option of investment
policy. Marian noted Rubley indicated the laws that cover the city's retirement
plan do not apply because we are not employees. Smiertka noted the issue is
whether it applies to municipal pension systems that define a "Savings and Thrift
Plan" as a separate corporation, created by municipalities. Motion was made by
Commissioner Butler to approve this policy as submitted, Second: Commissioner
Ristow, motion carried.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 4
December 15, 1998
c. Amendment to the Savings Plan: As was indicated in the audit, federal law
mandates the creation of a trust for LEPFA's deferred compensation funds by
January 1 which protects the funds from creditors. State law stipulates that only
a bank or and individual can serve as a trustee of our pension plans. Several
months ago LEPFA changed banks from First of America to Community First and
as such, Security Benefit, an insurance company is handling the investment of our
pension funds. LEPFA is also requesting fiduciary insurance because we are
assuming the responsibilities of trustees of the plan because a bank is no longer
handling the funds. The Finance Committee recommended the purchase of
insurance at$1600 with no deductible (the other choice was $1400 with a $1000
deductible per claim). In summary the Savings Plan amendment sets up a trust and
names the President and CEO and the Vice President of Finance as the trustees
as recommended by legal counsel, noting First of America was serving as a
trustee.
d. Second Amendment to the Thrift Plan: This also names the trustees and deletes
First of America from the list of trustees. Jim Smiertka questioned if he will be
named on the fiduciary insurance policy because it is indicated in the document
that it "has been reviewed with legal counsel" and he noted that he did not have
an opportunity to review the information and further that the Articles of
Incorporation designates him as responsible for the affairs of LEPFA and he
would like to be protected. Smiertka indicated that it was referenced that legal
counsel had reviewed the documents, and their office had not reviewed the
documents. Peter explained that earlier he had mentioned to Smiertka that this
was not done on a pre-meditated basis and what was referred to was discussed
with counsel at Foster Swift Collins and Smith who drafted our pension plans, and
it was felt that we should review the information with them. Peter noted further
that we were remiss in not discussing the amendments with the City Attorney's
office initially, and moving forward we will forward information to Mr. Smiertka.
Commissioner Jeffries asked if the plan had to be approved today to allow Jim
time to review the policies; Bryant noted that the trust has to be set up by January
1 per the federal law. Commissioner Butler recommended that the Board accept
the amendment as presented and that if there are any modifications by the City
Attorney that they be forwarded to the Finance Committee for consideration.
Commissioner Swanson noted there is also the option of referring this subject to
Committee.
Commissioner Ristow moved adoption of the amendment to the LEPFA savings
plan to include the purchase of fiduciary insurance and further that the savings
plan be approved, as well as the adoption of the second amendment, subject to
approval by the City Attorney's office. Motion: Commissioner Ristow Second:
Commissioner McGuire motion carried.
e. Amendment of the Financial Policies - Investment Accounts: State law requires
the naming of investment officers for the General Funds. Page two displays the
amendment which names the President and CEO and the Vice President of
Finance as the Investment Officers and calls for a semi-annual review with the
financial institution to insure compliance with the investment policy and informing
the Finance Committee on at least a semi-annual basis of the progress of the
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 5
December 15, 1998
investment accounts. Motion: Commissioner Sinadinos Second: Commissioner
Ristow, motion carried.
f. Second Amendment to the Cafeteria Plan: Federal law requires that by January
1 we make changes which clearly outline the circumstances by which employees
can make changes to their selection in the cafeteria plan, other than at annual
election times. Marian explained that the cafeteria plan is a plan which allows
employees to opt out of their medical and dental insurance if they have
comparable coverage with a spouse, and allows employees the opportunity to use
pre-tax dollars on dependent care. The amendment required by Federal law is
more specific on the changes that can be made other than at the annual time.
Motion: Commissioner McGuire Second: Commissioner Butler motion
carried.
Chair Janssen thanked everyone for reviewing the plan (Marian and Charlie for
their work and the Finance Committee specifically) and noted to Mr. Smiertka that
we will look forward to his comments as soon as possible prior to the next Board
meeting (if possible) to insure that we are in compliance. Mr. Smiertka explained
that a conscious decision was made by City Council when LEPFA was formed
that designates the City Attorney's Office as a legal counsel to LEPFA and he
explained further that he has a duty to not only City Council, but also a fiduciary
duty.
C. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
1. Union Issues: Peter noted the Maintenance agreement has been completed and
progress has been made with the Facility Workers and there are only a few points that
need to be agreed upon. In regard to Tech Services and Stage Hands, discussions
continue. Negotiations are on hold until after the holidays and new union leadership
takes place on January 1 (Michael Wright) and he has entrusted all union negotiations
to continue through Dirk.
2. Lansing City Market: Peter reported the October rental revenue was up about$2,000
over November 1997 which is a 65% increase. Occupancy is at 80%, which is about
48% over last year and it appears that revenue and occupancy will stay strong through
the winter months. Regarding recruitment efforts we have signed on a new vendor for
the Christmas season, this vendor will be selling gift baskets with a variety of items
and she will be at the Market through Christmas day and hopefully on a number of
Saturdays through the winter. Also, Fabianos broke the world's record by making a
30 foot candy cane at the Market and it received local, regional and national coverage.
The six o'clock news has been live at the Market, which continues in our promotional
efforts to keep the market in the community's view at large.
3 . Oldsmobile Park: Regarding utilities, we have sent Tom Dickson a list of the different
arbitrators and he has yet to select one and it is hoped that one will be selected in the
next week to ten days. Through operations we continue to monitor special projects and
capital expenditures, and we are investigating numerous caulking projects due to the
facility's settling; we continue to deal with these issues with Capital Consultants and
Clark Construction and we will continue to monitor this issue. Tom Dickson has asked
that LEPFA and the City review a proposal that would include contributing to a
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Meeting
Page 6
December 15, 1998
Lugnut capital project, which consists of an upgrade to the right field concessions
area. They are looking to move their picnic area from left field to right field which
will cost an estimated $120,000 and a proposal has been sent to LEPFA requesting the
city invest approximately $40,000. Peter noted he has reviewed this issue with Bob
Swanson. We will continue to review the proposal and ultimately if the city decides
to contribute to the project the monies would come from the stadium's capital fund.
He noted it is a nice opportunity because overall the picnic revenue will increase and
therefore the city's return will increase and it does merit some city participation and
we will continue to analyze the issue and share the results with the city. In regard to
summer programming, we continue to meet with our partners and they have come to
us with a proposal to become involved in a large summer musical festival and we
continue to analyze this issue. He cautioned that should we feel this issue merits
serious attention, it may necessitate a special meeting or two for presentation from
staff to the Board and then presentation from staff to members of Council and/or the
Mayor's office because it may likely require an investment by LEPFA. Meanwhile,
we continue to analyze our potential participation and he noted he wanted to bring it
to the Board's attention. Also, due to the weather we are reaching a critical point
regarding skating and there may come a point when we decide not to have skating
because it would not be economically feasible.
At 8:17 a.m. Bob Swanson exited the meeting.
Peter reminded the Board of Commissioner Bob Swanson's previous comments
regarding City Council's potential priority to investigate a permanent solution to
skating at Oldsmobile Park and noted that we continue to analyze this as well.
4. Lansing Center: During November the Lansing Center hosted 41 events, which
equated to 70 event days, with approximately 35,000 attendees, equaling 1,500 room
nights for an economic impact of approximately $700,000. In comparison to 1997,
we were up by 5 events and 9 event days; and economic impact was up, as well as
extra charges, banquet income and counter sales.
At 8:20 a.m. Jack Jordan exited the meeting.
Peter noted on December 4 he, the Mayor and Tom Galyon gave a presentation to the
Michigan Dental Association Board, approximately 60 members, to try to convince
them to hold their annual event in Lansing in 2002, and we were notified that at their
Board meeting they voted to come to Lansing in 2002. They will leave Detroit and
will utilize our entire building (4000-5000 attendees for four days) and the Radisson
will be their headquarters. Peter noted our goal is to get Lansing into their rotation.
Lansing Center December highlights include the Festival of Trees which has increased
and drew over 13,000 people and raised two-times the amount they raised in prior
years. Foster, Swift, Collins and Smith held their holiday party and attracted in
excess of 1400 people. Diamond Quest was in house December 5 and attracted close
to 3000 people. December 8 the Chamber Holiday mixer was held which attracted in
excess of 300 people. Peter noted the following sample of the holiday parties that we
are hosting: the Michigan Department of Management and Budget, the American Red
Cross Blood Services Group - Great Lakes Region, Ikon Office Supply, Superior
Electric, Wolverine Development, Bay Petroleum, Spartan Oil Corporation, Holland
LEPFA Board of Commissioners
Page 7
December 15, 1998
Systems, Davenport Masonry, Norvo Nordisk and Neogen Corporation for a total of
11 parties in the month of December. Peter noted the parties are up over last year and
to some extent is a result of the ads the Marketing Department has put in local and
regional publications, as well as spin off business from people attending events at the
Lansing Center.
Upcoming events include Fest Eve on December 31, January 4 through 6 Michigan
Landscape and Nursery Conference/Tradeshow; the WILX Boat Show will be in the
building January 8-10, January 11-13 Michigan Agri-Business
Conference/Tradeshow, and January 18 the Holiday Commission- Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. luncheon will be held.
5. Staff Holida, Py arty: This year, due to overwhelming feedback, we are changing the
format of our Christmas Party. The staff party will be held today and staff will work
one half day and we will have lunch at the Lansing Center and then will go to Royal
Scot for bowling, pool, darts and games. To-date the response has been more than
double that of previous years.
6. Belen Ballrooms: Peter noted that it has been brought to his attention that Lucile
Belen would like to have her name over all the ballrooms as opposed to the Michigan
Avenue entrance. Peter noted this was an issue two years ago and requested the
Board's support in addressing this issue.
Commissioner Ristow complimented the Mayor, Peter and Tom Galyon on getting
the Michigan Dental Association to come to Lansing.
VII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE:
Committee Chairman James Butler III reported he and Peter continue to meet on a regular basis
to discuss any type of personnel issues. The Personnel Committee will meet today, following the
Board meeting to discuss issues they have on the table. The CEO's annual evaluation has been
established and will be completed by the end of the week; however, the committee still needs to
meet to begin discussing the CEO's contract, which is up next year. Chair Butler reminded the
Board of the Staff Party today at noon in the Ballrooms and then bowling at Royal Scot.
VIII. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS:
A. Commissioner Ristow: Commissioner Ristow noted that the Convention&Visitors Bureau has
officially moved and they are in the old Estes Furniture Warehouse building and will plan a
grand opening in the near future.
B. Commissioner Butler: Commissioner Butler extended "Happy Holiday" greetings to all of
those present and noted it is a pleasure working with each person involved with the Board.
Commissioner Butler inquired as to the status of Commissioner Robert Lee.
IX. OLD BUSINESS:
No report.
LEPFA Board of Commissioners
Page 8
December 15, 1998
X. NEW BUSINESS:
No report.
THE NEXT MONTHLY MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 1999 AT 7:30
A.M. AT THE LANSING CENTER IN THE GOVERNOR'S ROOM.
At 8:30 a.m. the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Heidi K. Brown, Recording Secretary
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
1998 Board of Commissioners
OFFICERS
DONALD J. RISTOW (Chairman) OFFICE: 487-2020
Ristow &Associates FAX: 487-2020
610 W. Ottawa, Suite #1406 HOME: 487-2020
Lansing, MI 48933-1064
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 1998
CHARLES A. JANSSEN (Vice Chairman) OFFICE: 371-8262
FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, PC FAX: 371-8200
313 S. Washington Sq. HOME: 485-3004
Lansing, MI 48933-2193
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 2000
CHARLOTTE S. SINADINOS (Secretary/Treasurer) OFFICE: 484-7676
1003 Darlington Ave. HOME: 337-0554 OR
East Lansing, MI 48823 337-8587
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 2000
COMMISSIONERS
JAMES W. BUTLER III OFFICE: 377-3709
IBM FAX 377-3745
1476 Stonegate HOME: 332-0910
East Lansing, MI 48823
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 1998
ELLEN JEFFRIES OFFICE: 373-5300
3229 Moores River Dr. FAX: 373-1986
Lansing, MI 48911 HOME: 482-4416
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 1998
GREG KOESSEL (Ex-officio)
City of Lansing OFFICE: 483-4164
Internal Audit FAX: 483-7630
3rd Floor, City Hall
124 W. Michigan Ave.
Lansing, MI 48933
ROBERT J. LEE
Michigan State Building and Construction Trades Council OFFICE: 484-8427
435 Washington Square South FAX: 484-1038
Lansing, MI 48933-2136
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 1998 E-MAIL: mibidgtrds@aol.com
CYRIL A. MCGUIRE HOME: 482-5296
International Representative U.A.W. - Retired
401 S. Verlinden
Lansing, MI 48915
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 2000
(OVER PLEASE)
KATE MCNENLY OFFICE: 487-1000
The McNenly Group FAX: 372-3262
1026 N. Washington HOME: 887-1768
Lansing, MI 48906
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 1999
ROBERT SWANSON (Ex-officio)
City of Lansing OFFICE: 483-4505
Finance Department FAX: 483-4524
8th Floor, City Hall HOME: 371-2795
124 Michigan Ave.
Lansing, MI 48933
DENNIS J. SYKES (Ex-officio)
City of Lansing OFFICE: 483-4060
Planning & Neighborhood Development FAX: 483-6036
316 N. Capital Ave. Suite D-1 HOME:
Lansing, MI 48933
DENISE WOOTTON (Appointment Pending) OFFICE: 484-6341
Wootton &Associates, Inc. CITY MKT: 487-9414
16886 N. Turner HOME: 651-5040
Lansing, MI 48906
TERM EXPIRATION: June 30, 1998
RESOURCE PERSONNEL
JAMES SMIERTKA OFFICE: 483-4320
City of Lansing FAX: 483-4081
City Attorney's Office HOME: 487-5344
5" Floor City Hall
124 W. Michigan Ave.
Lansing, MI 48933
JACK JORDAN OFFICE: 483-4321
City of Lansing FAX: 483-4081
City Attorney's Office HOME: 393-2018
5"' Floor City Hall
124 W. Michigan Ave.
Lansing, MI 48933
LEPFA STAFF
333 E. Michigan Ave.
Lansing, MI 48933
FAX: 483-7439
MAIN LINE: 483-7400
Peter C. Sullivan Tad Carper Michael Meyers Marian Bryant
Pager: 229-2627 229-2879 228-3667
Cell: 256-4312 281-3655 230-3257
Home: 487-9699 346-7714 327-6177 699-0701
Direct: 483-7410 483-7412 483-7428 483-7431
HOME ADDRESSES:
2100 Moores River Dr. 2306 Northhampton 1026 Runaway Bay 1811 Cottonwood Dr.
Lansing, MI 48910 Lansing, MI 48906 Drive 1 B Holt, MI 48842
Lansing, MI 48917
Revised: 1/98