An audit shows the struggling Ralston Arena bled less red ink in the past fiscal year.
The independent auditor's report shows the arena had an operating cash flow income and expense loss of just over $622,000 between October 1, 2014 and September 30, 2015, a decrease from the previous reporting cycle, The arena brought in more than $6.2 million in revenue. It paid out more than $5.3 million to suppliers, more than $1.5 million to employees, and used $622,130 in cash for operations. More than $2.2 million in state money was used for bond debt service principal and interest.
During the time period, the arena hosted 90 events which drew more than 230,000 people. That's up from 85 events which drew just under 203,000 people. With the addition to the Omaha Chargers NBLA basketball team which was announced Tuesday, along with regular tenants the Omaha Lancers, Omaha Beef indoor football team, and other events, arena managers expect the facility to be busier than ever this year.
