I would like to refer a discussion item to the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee (the “Committee”) to consider what steps can be taken to increase the utilization of ballroom and meeting space at the Miami Beach Convention Center (“MBCC”) by Miami-Dade residents for weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, quinceañera parties and other festivities.

The recently renovated ballrooms and meeting rooms at the MBCC are spectacular, but significantly underutilized.  I have been told that the pricing for catering (including alcoholic beverages) by Centerplate, the City’s exclusive food and beverage provider at the MBCC, makes it cost-prohibitive to hold celebrations there.

I would like the Committee discuss ideas for improving utilization of the ballrooms and meeting spaces at the MBCC.

Staff from the Economic Development Department should be prepared to participate in the discussion.  Representatives from OVG360 (MBCC manager) and Centerplate (MBCC F&B manager) should be invited to participate.