Dayton City Commission approves sale of convention center

DAYTON — City leaders are hopeful after finalizing the sale of the Dayton Convention Center that a big step forward to attract economic development in downtown Dayton has been taken.

On Wednesday, after receiving the final approval from the Dayton City Commission, the Montgomery County Convention Facility Authority took ownership of the convention center.

The facility that has been a staple in Dayton since it was built in 1973. Dayton City Manger Shelley Dickstein called the building a “regional asset.”

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City leaders estimated that the building needs upwards of $28 million worth of upgrades, something they could not do. From the small repairs such as new ceiling tiles, to much larger ones like the need for a new HVAC system and a partial roof replacement; the city decided selling was the best option.

“The subsidy that it required of the city can now be put into other things that are a primary focus for Dayton citizens,” Dickstein said.

The Convention Facility Authority put together a plan to help generate cash to operate and upgrade the faculty that would not impact Dayton or Montgomery County residents’ sales tax or property tax. An additional 3 percent will be added to hotel room sales tax in Montgomery County. That plan was previously approved.

Cox Media Group