MCC athletic complex would lose money at first, study says

McHenry County College's divisive Health, Wellness and Athletic Complex would lose almost $634,000 in its first year, a feasibility study released Tuesday says.

The proposed 95,000-square-foot complex would be built north and west of the Route 14 campus and was projected to run in the red its first five years.

The $26 million project, which included a 6,500-seat baseball stadium that would host a minor league team, was expected to bring in an estimated $2.5 million in revenue its first year, but cost $3.2 million to run.

Though starting out as a financial burden, the complex would eventually earn $43.3 million in profit over 25 years, the study says.

"While this project meets collegiate needs, if it were analyzed purely from the perspective of private sector investors, it would have limited investment appeal," EquityOne Sports Development President Mark Houser said in a release. The Libertyville-based consultant explained that modifications like an increased gymnasium size and reduced locker room facilities might increase available space for revenue generation.

If the project were treated as a self-sustaining business venture, Houser said, it has "excellent potential of succeeding."

Focusing on its ability to generate revenue in support of college needs, the center "would have the ability to pay for the project without increasing taxes and along with generating funds for future college projects," he said.

The college's board of trustees released the 131-page study more than eight months after Houser's firm completed it.

After being approved by the board and the Illinois Community College Board, the Crystal Lake city council tabled the expansion plan during an Oct. 17 meeting. The college has the opportunity to present a revised bid at a future city council meeting.

The college is considering a variety of revised options for the expansion plan, some of which involve a minor league stadium and others that do not.

The college board's finance committee Chairwoman Donna Kurtz, who was censured by the college board after speaking publicly against the plan, commended her fellow board members on their decision to release the study.

"I think it's commendable that a majority of board members wanted to make a move toward transparency."

Former board Chairman Scott Summers said, "Personally, I think it would have been better if the study were released earlier."

Summers, who resigned from his leadership position Oct. 25, said he's happy the study is finally out. "It's a constructive step. … It'll be good to have the community kicking the tires on the evolving plan."