Purpose

Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with Competitor Group for the 2019 Savannah Rock n' Roll Marathon (includes a half-marathon and related events).

Background

Since 2011, Savannah has hosted a marathon and half-marathon as part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll series. This event is marketed world-wide, annually hosts between 12,000 and 15,000 runners each November.  The proposed agreement commits the City to the 9th annual race in 2019, with options for races in both 2020 and 2021.

Facts & Findings

1. The City Attorney’s Office has reviewed the agreement and concurs approves of its form. The agreement remains similar to past years with the City committing $25,000 and police services on the day of the event.
2. In attracting runners and their supporters to Savannah for the event, the City generates more than $1 million in sales tax and hotel-motel tax collections. The Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon and half-marathon is a premier running series in the United States, with more than 15 events in major cities.

Policy Analysis

Contracts require Council approval. The contracting entity is The Competitor Group.

Alternatives

1. Approve the agreement as presented with The Competitor Group.
2. Deny the agreement as presented with The Competitor Group.
3. Take no action.

Approval