Mayor: No cost to taxpayers

Friday, June 24, 2005 | 9:50 a.m.

Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman says no taxpayer money will be involved should Clear Channel be given $600,000 in cost breaks on its sponsorship contract with the city for the Las Vegas Centennial Celebration.

At his weekly City Hall news conference, the mayor said he is waiting to hear Clear Channel's presentation at the July meeting of the Centennial Committee, of which he is chairman, regarding why the company wants to change its contract before he decides how he will vote.

At his news conference, Goodman repeated what he told the Sun when it was learned Clear Channel wanted the cost concessions: "A deal is a deal, but at the same time we want to be reasonable."

The centennial has been funded by the sale of special centennial license plates, souviners and sources other than the General Fund taxpayer money.

Goodman said he expects Clear Channel to follow through on its contract noting, "their reputation is on the line" with the July 2 free Red Hot Chili Peppers concert at the Silver Bowl soccer complex next to Sam Boyd Stadium.

The final $200,000 portion of the media company's $2.3 million fee was expected to be paid before the Red Hot Chili Peppers concert. Clear Channel has asked the committee to forgive that payment and is asking for $400,000 to cover unanticipated special events expenses.

Goodman on Tuesday was in New York City to appear on the "Good Day, New York" television show and promote the concert.