Glen Robertson Talks Lubbock Coliseum Renovations and More

Lubbock Mayor Glen Robertson shared his thoughts about the Lubbock City Council objecting to an Xcel Energy rate hike, the city buying an offsite airport parking facility and the new qualifications for citizens wanting to serve on city boards and commissions.

Robertson recapped the Lubbock council meeting during his usual appearance on Lubbock's First News with Tom Collins and Laura Mac Friday morning.

Airport Parking Purchase

The council voted 6-0, with Councilman Victor Hernandez absent, to pass the resolution to purchase the Airport Shelter Park business from a private owner for $780,000. The city is also planning to add $147,000 worth of renovations and spending $100,000 to purchase new shuttle buses.

Robertson said the city owns the airport, but federal law prohibits cities from using general revenues for running the airport; airports must generate their own revenue. Lubbock is the only city of a significant size that does not currently charge parking services that serve the airport.

Robertson estimates that the parking facility could generate cash flow in excess of $450,000 the first year.

Due to a proposed Love's fuel center going in near the airport, Robertson believes the loss in fuel revenue will drop that cash flow to between $250,000 - $260,000. The airport will still be able to recover its initial investment in two to two and a half years.

Rebuilding a Legacy?

Lubbock Municipal Coliseum and Auditorium renovations also came up. Robertson noted that the seats in both venues are the facility's original seats. The location's air systems and restroom facilities are also in need of renovation.

Robertson said he's not interested in seeing the city making sizable investments into the buildings, but is also not in favor of simply handing those buildings back to Texas Tech University. The land and buildings have substantial value, he said.

City Board Qualifications

The Lubbock council attempted to clarify language in applications for those wishing to volunteer to serve on city advisory boards and commissions that requires those individuals to be citizens living within the city limits.

Robertson said there are exceptions, such as the Lake Alan Henry Advisory Commission. Those who live at the lake are more than welcome to apply to serve on that board.

Xcel Energy Rate Hike

The Lubbock council voted 6-0 in opposition of Xcel Energy's proposed rate increase. Robertson said he was confused as to why it was such a big issue, noting that there is only one Xcel customer in the city.

To hear all of Robertson's interview, click play below: