Committee of the Whole - August 6, 2026

The MyEscambia Committee of the Whole meeting on August 6, 2026, focused primarily on the Bay Center upgrades and potential development of the property. Key procurement-related discussions included the recommendation to extend the current management agreement with Legends for phase one rehabilitation of the existing Bay Center building, with facility teams managing all project contracts, budgets, and schedules. The estimated cost for phase one rehabilitation was presented at $74 million, with concerns about cost escalations and deferred maintenance estimates. Financing options were discussed, including the use of tourist development tax (TDT) revenues and bond issuance, with an average annual debt service estimated at $12.5 million. The board discussed the need for a future Request for Proposals (RFP) to select a development partner who could provide equity contributions and guide phases two and three, which include an event center, parking structure, and possibly an ice rink. Legal considerations regarding property leases and interlocal agreements with the City of Pensacola were also addressed, highlighting the need for further negotiation and board involvement. The board expressed a consensus to move forward with phase one rehabilitation while continuing to refine partnerships, funding strategies, and project scope for subsequent phases. No formal votes were recorded, but action items include drafting an RFP for a development partner and advancing negotiations on the interlocal agreement with the city.