WestWorld Operations, Audit No. 2209

View Highlights

View Report

WestWorld is a 386-acre equestrian and special event recreation facility operated by the City on federal land under an agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR). The facility hosts many annual events including the All-Arabian Horse Show, the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction, and the Parada del Sol Rodeo along with other events throughout the year.

The audit found that negotiated facility rates do not consider the event labor hours, and rate and fee information does not accurately evaluate cost recovery. Recommendations include that WestWorld management develop a sliding scale for discounting facility rates and evaluate ways to offer all-inclusive facility fees for contracted events; conduct a thorough RV rate analysis and evaluate whether additional fees are needed; and use full-cost calculations when developing facility rates and fees.

As well, opportunities exist to improve facility use monitoring, marketing, billing, and RV processes. WestWorld management should report facility utilization as percentage of available capacity; implement technology systems to track facility management and event scheduling; streamline the billing process; ensure contract terms are applied; and update the WestWorld website for better customer service.

Management agreed with the findings and stated that they have already begun making improvements.