City of Wichita records show that Century II lost money in 22 of the last 27 years and the hotel guest tax that was intended to make up for deficits has been used to promote tourism.
A report Friday from the Wichita Eagle says some of the funds have been going to Visit Wichita, the city’s convention and visitors bureau.
Wichita taxpayers, through the city’s general fund, have covered at least $14.4 million in losses at Century II. A city ordinance on the transient guest tax says the facility’s losses should be covered before money goes toward promoting the venue. But the city and its attorneys disagree.
Visit Wichita has been critical of Century II and has funded studies aimed at expanding the city’s convention center offerings.