Clear Channel seeks change to centennial sponsorship contract

Dan Kulin

Tuesday, June 21, 2005 | 9:41 a.m.

In another centennial related-development, Clear Channel representatives are seeking a change to their sponsorship contract that could be worth more than $600,000 for the company, said Betsy Fretwell, a Las Vegas deputy city manager and vice president of the centennial committee.

Clear Channel's contract with the committee makes the company the exclusive promoter of the centennial celebration in return for providing the July 2 concert, another concert series titled "Road to Vegas," plus $2.3 million. The final $200,000 of the $2.3 million is expected to be paid before the July 2 concert.

Clear Channel asked the committee to forgive that final $200,000 payment, however, the committee's next meeting is after that deadline. The corporation also is asking for $400,000 for unanticipated expenses related to special events, including the July 2 concert, and any merchandising revenue collected above $500,000, Fretwell said.

Fretwell said the merchandising profits have not yet reached $500,000.

Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman said Clear Channel's request will be discussed by the Centennial Committee.

"A deal is a deal, but at the same time we want to be reasonable," Goodman said.

Clear Channel representatives did not return telephone messages seeking comment Monday afternoon.