Report sheds light on increased spending toward downtown arena

A report given to the city of El Paso’s bond oversight committee shows about $22 million has either been spent, or is committed to being spent on the downtown arena.

During Monday’s meeting, board members received an update on the Multi-purpose Performing Art and Entertainment Center. The center has yet to be built, as a legal battle over whether it can be built in the Duranguito neighborhood continues.

Board members watched a brief video explaining the legal process the city has gone through.

“We were waiting until everything is settled with the issues that were presented before we proceed anything with selecting an architect, or anything else,” Assistant Director of the Capital Improvement Department Scott Sensanbaugher said. “Nothing has proceeded with that and that’s our update.”

However, before going into closed session, Sensanbaugher asked board members whether they would like more detail about any of the agenda items. Board Chairman Bernie Sargent questioned the spending for the multi-purpose center.

“When you look at the cultural and performing arts, $22 million is a lot of money,” Sargent said. “And right now we’re just sitting. Obviously because of the court, but I’m curious as to where the $22 million went.”

“We’ll look into that,” Sensanbaugher said.

After the meeting, Sensanbaugher told ABC-7 that $22,347,139 is likely going toward buying land. Although he was not sure whether the money has been spent, or just committed to being spent.

Officials within the department were unable to pull up the detailed expenditures after the meeting because the finance department was closed for the day but said they will work on getting the information by Tuesday.

In July, ABC-7 reported $15 million had been spent on the arena so far.

According to the Bond Overview Advisory Committee report, $180,000,000 is the budget for the Cultural and Performing Arts Center.

CLICK HERE to see letters written by El Paso Catholic Diocese Bishop Mark Seitz and Adair Margo regarding the legal battle.