Privatization of Public-Assembly-Facility Management

Abstract

Traditionally, public-assembly facilities (stadiums, arenas, convention centers) are built with public funds and thereafter managed by some municipal authority or governmental agency and subsidized by taxes. The benefits that may derive from breaking out of that traditional mold by hiring a private management firm include increased profitability, a more experienced staff, simpler purchasing procedures, faster decision-making, focused marketing, better accountability, and increased flexibility in negotiating contracts and rental rates. In general, those municipalities that have contracted for private management are pleased with their decisions, will continue to support privatization in their districts, and wholeheartedly recommend it to others.