Island divided on convention center expansion

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On Wednesday, a room was filled with divided opinions on whether or not an expansion to the island's convention center is needed.

Meanwhile, some wonder what may happen to migratory birds that pass through here with an expansion.

Andy Hancock is in the sandcastle business here on South Padre Island. Hancock says the amount of tourism in South Padre has decreased over the years.

"I mean, you got 4th of July weekend, it is what it is now, I mean, it used to be a monster."

Hancock opposes the idea of a nearly 100 million dollar expansion project to the island's convention center.

The expansion would include a ballroom, administrative space, and expand the 90 square foot facility to nearly 190 square feet.

The city is planning to fund it using a Venue tax and a hotel occupancy tax.

Meanwhile, others are concerned about the nature surrounding the convention center: the birds.

"It's a crucial migratory path for the whole United States, they come from all over the country and the Caribbean." Karen Nussbaumer, landowner at SPI, said.

The center's executive director, Blake Henry, says the expansion and revamp of the center are crucial for business here on the island.

 "This is not about choosing one side or the other; it is about understanding how both contribute to our community's success, and how strategic investments can keep us balanced and resilient," Henry said.

Henry says the center generates approximately 12 million dollars in revenue, but that it has been decreasing. Bookings are being turned away because there is no room.

Meanwhile, former Island Mayor Barry Patel says this is not the time for an expansion.

"I think it is important to realize that after expenses, we will have a net deficit of a couple of million dollars every year," Patel said.

Some of the other points mentioned during the meeting by the center's director include the common goal to preserve nature if this plan moves forward.

The operating cost of the center is now about 1.8 million.

It is also important to mention that this expansion has been in the talks for nearly 15 years.