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<br /> Using a "rollover" rate of 2.9%, this figure achieves, through a multiplier <br />e effect, the amount of $10,332,700. <br /> Using information from the Eugene/Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, <br /> Mr. Reynolds noted that several conferences booked Eugene solely because of the <br /> combined facilities of the Hult Center, Conference Center and the Hilton. He <br /> continued that for 1982-85, a direct economic impact of $6-1/2 million would be <br /> real i zed. Again, using a 2.9 multiplier, this signified a potential impact of <br /> $18,887,296. <br /> Mr. Reynolds continued with slide projections of the market study patron <br /> demographics. These included age distributions, age and performance relation- <br /> ships, socio-economic factors, income and educational levels, and socio- <br /> economic status and type of events attended. Mr. Reynolds stated that the <br /> findings demonstrate the center's marketing effectiveness in reaching all age <br /> categories with a broad range of events. In most categories, local statistics <br /> were similar to national demographic distributions. <br /> Then Hult Center Business Manager Bob Schutz presented budget projections for <br /> fiscal years 1985-89. With small inflationary increases and a 10% usage factor <br /> increase, a deficit in the range of $350,000 to $370,000 was projected. It was <br /> noted that on the income side, the largest single source of revenue was from the <br /> Eugene Arts Foundation in the amount of $327,185, which represented 39%. Rental s, <br /> room tax, patron user fees and box office commissions each accounted for 10 to <br /> 17 percent of the total receipts. While a reduction in marketing staff was <br /> considered to cut expenditures, this move was reconsidered as it was decided <br /> that this reduction would cause losses in income in the various categories. <br />e Mr. Gleason summarized that while continued deficits were projected, the <br /> center's services should be viewed as a cultural and historical investment <br /> in the community. In comparison to other city investments, programs, and user <br /> fee systems, these potential loss figures are not "out of the ballpark." <br /> Extensive discussion followed the presentation. Mr. Lindberg suggested <br /> reconsideration of a room tax increase and/or a restaurant tax in view of <br /> the benefits accruing to hospitality industries. Mr. Hansen concurred with Mr. <br /> Gleason that the center be included with other departments and viewed as a good <br /> investment. Ms. Schue stressed that property taxes not be used to carry the <br /> burden, but other forms of revenue be considered. Mr. Obie said that funding <br /> options should remain open, and that the overall needs of the community should <br /> be examined at. Mr. Holmer and Ms. Smith agreed with Mr. Obie's concept, and <br /> recommended caution on "selective taxation." Mr. Obie suggested that the <br /> council settle the issue of whether the deficit should be covered by the general <br /> fund or if other tax sources should be considered to enable the budget committee <br /> to move ahead. <br /> Mr. Keller concluded the discussion by stating that the Chair would consider <br /> another council discussion and/or referral to the Financial Planning Commission <br /> prior to the regular council action. <br />e <br /> MINUTES--Eugene City Council August 8, 1983 Page 2 <br />