City of Bryan reviews entertainment agreements in special session

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) -The Bryan City Council will gather for a special meeting on Thursday to discuss two significant agenda items: An economic development agreement with SMBG (Schulman’s Movie Bowl Grille) Bryan, LLC, and the potential termination of an exclusive facility use agreement with Infinity Sports Entertainment. The meeting will include an executive session followed by an open session if any action is taken.

Executive Session Agenda

During the executive session, which is held behind closed doors, city leaders will receive legal advice regarding Bryan’s existing agreement with Infinity Sports Entertainment, the parent company of the Brazos Valley Bombers and Twin City Toucans, as well as a proposed economic development agreement with SMBG Bryan, LLC; the company developing SMBG at Midtown Park.

Regular Agenda: SMBG Bryan Economic Development Agreement

One key item on the agenda is the approval of a Chapter 380 Agreement between the City of Bryan and SMBG Bryan, LLC. This agreement aims to stimulate local economic development and improve the quality of life for Bryan residents. The proposed investment totals $2 million from the General Fund, highlighting the City’s commitment to fostering business growth and community development.

Regular Agenda: Infinity Sports Entertainment Agreement/ Brazos Valley Bombers/ Twin City Toucans

The Council will also consider ending the exclusive facility use agreement with Infinity Sports Entertainment, established in 2006 and amended four times. This agreement allows Infinity to use the Travis Major Baseball Field at the Travis Athletic Complex for hosting a collegiate baseball team and other activities.

The Brazos Valley Bombers, a summer collegiate baseball team in the Texas Collegiate League (TCL), are a key component of this agreement. Known for providing minor league-style entertainment, the Bombers have contributed significantly to the community by hosting hundreds of events, donating to local charities, and investing nearly $1 million in the revitalization of a historic ballpark.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, a fifth amendment in 2021 deferred a significant payment from Infinity to the City, extending the deadline to September 2025 or earlier under certain conditions. Despite these adjustments, the City Council is now considering terminating the agreement entirely.

Community Impact

The potential termination of the agreement with Infinity Sports Entertainment has raised concerns within the Bryan community, particularly among the Brazos Valley Bombers. In an email to city leaders and shared with KBTX, the Bombers expressed their disappointment and outlined their contributions to Bryan over nearly two decades.

“Our lawyer has received your letter and will have a formal response prepared in the coming days,” the email stated. “Given that our league requires ballpark details this month for the 2025 season, we need a clearer understanding of the City of Bryan’s goals regarding this matter, especially since this decision was not a public vote by council.”

The Bombers emphasized their extensive community involvement, including hosting events, donating to local charities, and investing in the ballpark. They highlighted their collaboration with the city, such as ringing the bell with mayors for the Salvation Army and supporting numerous local initiatives.

“We respectfully request that you rescind the termination letter for ‘convenience,’ which we believe is unwarranted and contrary to the spirit of our agreement,” the Bombers stated. They proposed alternatives to continue their presence in Bryan, including renting the facility at a reasonable rate and retaining rights to sell concessions and sponsorships.

The Bombers stressed the urgency of the situation, noting they need confirmation of their ability to play in Bryan for the 2025 season by July 19, 2024. They expressed hope for productive dialogue with the city to continue their positive impact on the community.

“In a world where commitments are seldom honored, we hope that city staff can stand behind their contractual commitments,” the email concluded. “We believe that honoring the agreement would reinforce the trust and goodwill that have been the foundation of our longstanding relationship with the City of Bryan.”

Editors Note: This story is developing. KBTX has reached out to the city of Bryan for an statement and will update when one becomes available.

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