Russ' Leach Story

Oshkosh Common Council members (voted no or yes) on a facilities charge for the Leach Amphitheater during a meeting at City Hall Tuesday night.

Council Member Paul Esslinger originally proposed the new ordinance to help generate revenue for the maintenance of the Leach amphitheatre.

The first summer of the theatre’s existence was a bit slow, but popular acts have increased interest with the public. Esslinger thinks a charge would help with maintaining the facility.

The ordinance says that all events will have a facility charge of $1 per paid admission when a ticket price is $5 or more. The group responsible for ticket sales will submit all revenues from the facility charge to the city no later than 30 days after the event.

The proceeds from the charge will be placed in a separate account and will be first used only for payment of current and future debt service. Excess funds can be used for non-routine maintenance, upgrades, enhancements, renovations and replacements need for the Leach Amphitheatre.

At a prior meeting, councilman Frank Tower said the charge was not necessary now and that people should not pay for something they might not use in the future.

Councilman Shirley Mattox defended the charge saying it is needed for maintaining the facility for future success.