Clayton School Board Ends Outside Management Contract for Arena at Southlake
The Clayton County Board of Education has voted to end its outside management agreement for the Arena at Southlake and transfer direct management of the facility to Clayton County Public Schools.
During its September 28 meeting, the board voted 6-2-1 to end the district’s contract with TRP, also known as The Right Productions Now. The agreement will end on December 31, 2026, after which the school system will manage the arena internally.
Board members Jasmine Bowles, Dee Haney, Victoria Williams, Mary Baker, Sabrina Hill and Joy Tellis Cooper voted to end the contract. Mark Christmas and Benjamin Straker voted against the decision, while Jessie Goree abstained.
District officials said the change is expected to save Clayton County Public Schools more than $1.4 million while giving the school system greater oversight of the arena’s finances, programming and daily operations.
Superintendent Douglas Hendrix told the board that internal management would provide stronger fiscal oversight, more operational control and better alignment with district priorities.
The Best of Clayton County is following this development because the Arena at Southlake was introduced as a major education, sports and entertainment venue for Clayton County and the broader South Metro Atlanta area.
Residents can follow additional community news and local developments at The Best of Clayton County and contribute community photos and updates through the Community Gallery.
Financial Questions Behind the Decision
Financial information presented during the board’s discussion showed some of the challenges facing the arena during its first months of operation.
School-system figures cited during the meeting indicated that concession sales totaled $82,507 through August, producing a reported gross result of $14,774.13. District figures also reflected a loss of approximately $29,584 from June through August.
Marketing expenses had reached approximately $400,613 through August. Those costs were projected to reach nearly $493,000 by the end of December, or approximately $530,000 if all existing marketing vendors continued.
Board Chair Jasmine Bowles said the district’s first responsibility is educating students and questioned whether the continued expenses could be justified as instructional costs continue to increase.
The district is now considering a school-based concessions model that could include stands branded for Clayton County high schools.
Officials are also exploring restaurant partnerships and sponsorship opportunities.
The management transition will take effect after the TRP contract ends on December 31.
Residents should watch for additional information about future arena staffing, event scheduling, vendor agreements and the district’s operating plan for 2027.
Sources:
Comments