Politics & Government

Town Considers Fee Increases for Alhambra Hall

Town undercharging for popular waterfront venue, officials say.

With its sweeping vista of Charleston Harbor, manicured lawn and recently renovated interior, Alhambra Hall in Mount Pleasant is routinely listed at a top venue for weddings, receptions and fundraisers.

And popularity is only fueled by its relatively affordable rental rate and slack reservation policy, town officials say.

That's why the town is considering a roughly 30 percent increase in rental rates along with increased cancellation fees, deposits and the possible elimination of free or reduced rental prices for non-profits.

Find out what's happening in Mount Pleasantwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Currently the facility rents for $1,500 for Mount Pleasant residents and $2,500 for non-residents. The town wants to increase those rates to $2,000 and $3,000, respectively. Town officials are also considering doubling the rental deposit from $1,000 to $500.

Town officials view Alhambra Hall as one of the Charleston region's premiere event venues, but its rates are far below properties that do not offer the same central location, view and amenities, they say.

Find out what's happening in Mount Pleasantwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

On top of that, the town has allowed patrons to reserve multiple dates and only provided nominal penalties if the renter cancels up to 90 days prior the event. That policy, along with the fee waivers and discounts offered to charities, cost the town $12,000 last year and limited the number of days available for weddings and other events.

Town leaders were briefed on the fee increase proposal at a council committee meeting recently. The full town council will take up the matter at a future meeting. If approved, the new fees will go in place July 1, 2013.

Councilmen appeared to support the fee increases, noting that the town has recently renovated the facility and the concern that the town's generosity is being abused.

"This is really the jewel of town facilities, and it's still a bargain, even with the proposed increases," said Councilman Chris Nickels.

The town looked at other facilities, such as the Cooper Room at Waterfront Memorial Park and the Cotton Dock at Boone Hall Plantation. Alhambra Hall's rates were far below those facilities, town officials said.

"Compared to other facilities, it appears that we are behind (on rates and rental policies)," said Councilwoman Thomasena Stokes-Marshall. "I think it's time to look at adjustments."

Nickels said the increases were actually less than what he believed the market demands, noting that the facility is in high demand.

All councilmen agreed the town's lax rental policies need adjustment, particularly the terms that allow one person to reserve more than one date. That robs the town of revenue and prevents others from having a chance at reserving the facility, said Councilman John Burn.

The council committee asked town employees to expand on their proposal and present it at a future council meeting. The town council meets in full on March 9, but it was not clear if the new rental terms would be considered at that meeting.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Mount Pleasant