Several years ago, Great Bend city staff, the Conventions and Visitors Bureau Advisory Board and the mayor decided that the city should charge caterers 10% of their total food and alcohol receipts for all events at the Events Center.
The city stated the fee enables them to maintain a list of approved caterers. It also helps ensure people bringing in food have less liability issues and that they have a food license and insurance.
This practice was not well enforced. However, three years ago, the city notified both caterers and vendors that the city was going to start charging that 10% to all events in food and alcohol sales. This is the duty of the caterers to collect and pay to the city.
The city stated they have a few vendors/caterers that pay religiously.
The Events Center receives revenue in two ways. One, room rental fees which everyone, including city departments, pay a fee to use the rooms. Two, the one-percent of transient guest tax, which is generated by overnight stays in hotels.
The city does not offer a special rate for non-profit organizations because most non-profit events do not generate overnight stays.
Great Bend mentioned the Events Center needs to be self-sufficient, and correct rental fees is a key component.
Great Bend staff again notified everyone that beginning in 2023, they city would strictly enforce the 10% rule. Letters have been sent to all approved caters and it will be up to the caterers to pay this fee to the Events Center.
The city has received the 10% fee from around 26 events this year.
CVB Director Christina Hayes will report on the topic at the Great Bend City Council meeting on Monday, Nov. 7 that begins at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.
The city council will be presented a recommended motion to approve a 10% catering fee on gross receipts for all events at the Great Bend Events Center and authorize charging full rental fees for all utilized rooms.