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Convention Center revenues up 6%

The Visalia Convention Center continued its trend of reducing its reliance on the General Fund with a 6% increase in event revenue from FY 2011-12 to FY 2012-13. Manager Wally Roeben reported to the City Council at Monday's work session that event revenues have continued to rebound while the operating deficit continues its downward trend, dropping by 9% over the same period.

Since opening for business in April of 1972, the number of events set an all-time record of 2,569 in FY 2012-13. Much of the increase was due to additional classes from University of Phoenix, which is in the process of signing a new two-year contract for administrative and classroom space. Conventions and conferences remain a strong segment of business for the Convention Center. All total, FY 2012-13 saw an 11% increase in this event category.

To read the staff report, click here.

Oval Park improvements discussed

Future improvements for the Oval Park prompted discussion during Monday's work session. The Visalia City Counci authorized staff to return with cost estimates for security lights and cameras and fending around the east side of the Lincoln Oval Park.

The Parks & Recreation Commission and the North Visalia Advisory Committee had recommended five prioritized improvements totaling $550,000 be made to the park as funds become available. A plan approved in August by the Commission for improving Lincoln Oval Park, includes the following: Replace the 20-year-old playground equipment with new equipment and install a shade covering over the playground; build a walking path circling the park; improve the small amphitheater north of the Oval Service Center and install a shade cover; install a three- to four-foot high wrought-iron fence around the east side of the park; and install four new park security lights and cameras.

City officials, residents and operators of businesses around Lincoln Oval Park have been involved in discussions over the past five years to improve the park. Last month, the city removed the restroom at the center of the Lincoln Oval Park. At one point, the North Visalia Neighborhood Advisory Committee had more than 20 proposals for the park, which occupies just 1.6 acres. In June, the members of that committee presented the Parks and Recreation Commission with a plan with just five top-priority changes for the park.

To read the staff report, click here. To view the rendering, click here.

Donuts & Discussion Focuses on Homeless

Enjoy Donuts and Discussion with Council Member Warren Gubler and members of the City’s SMART Team from 8 to 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Oval Park Community Center at 808 N. Court St. This informal gathering allows any citizen to address their concerns or ask questions one-on-one with Council Member Gubler.

Representatives from the City’s SMART Team will be there to address issues dealing with the homeless and the steps the City is taking as well as an update on road construction in and around the Lincoln Oval. In addition, Kurt Salierno, director of the Men’s Shelter of the Visalia Rescue Mission will be available to answer questions about the services the Mission provides.

Council Member Gubler also can be reached through 713-4400, then enter 3313, or by email at [email protected].