Tyrone DDA approves conditional Night Market contract tying sponsorships to municipal-cost recovery

The Tyrone Downtown Development Authority approved a conditional contract framework Aug. 10 with Night Market LLC, operator Jason Bass, for a Sept. 18 night market — but only after the board insisted language make municipal-cost recovery explicit and preserve a 50/50 split of remaining sponsorship revenue.

Assistant Town Manager Philip Troquet said the proposed contract treats sponsorship income this way: the sponsorship coordinator is paid at the agreed rate first; the remaining net sponsorship revenue "shall be divided equally with 50% payable to Night Market and 50% payable to the authority." Several board members pressed to make clear that town costs (EMT, police, public works) and the DDA's event costs (temporary restrooms, electrical) would be covered before the 50/50 split. Board members and staff discussed using a fixed municipal-cost figure for this event (staff suggested a combined $3,000 cap for town and authority costs) so the promoter can plan.

Board members reviewed prior event numbers: staff said sponsorship net revenue in the first round was roughly $3,000 (one board member estimated net nearer $3,400 after anticipated sponsor fees), municipal costs last event were about $1,200–$1,300 and restroom rentals cost roughly $1,700. Members agreed the September date is a test case: if sponsorship revenue is higher, both parties could see more revenue; if not, the contract language must ensure the town and DDA do not absorb unrecoverable costs. The board asked staff to insert wording that the sponsorship coordinator's fee is deducted first and that town costs are recouped before the remaining funds are split 50/50; staff said they will add a not-to-exceed municipal cost figure in the final draft.

The Chair moved to draft and approve a contract consistent with that language; the motion passed by voice vote. Staff will work with Night Market LLC on the final contract wording and may return language to the board for an early-September sign-off if necessary.