Thomas J. Henry said people elected and appointed to protect the public interest blocked the deal outright without explanation and ‘without shame.’
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Thomas J. Henry responded to the City of Corpus Christi after it denied his million-naming rights proposal for the American Bank Center naming rights revenue.
In a press release on Tuesday, Henry said he asks the city for answers as to why his $20 million offer was turned down ‘without justification.’
On Monday, OVG360 announced that the American Bank Center would be named the Hilliard Convention Center at the end of the summer after entering the final phase of negotiations with OVG360 for the facility’s naming rights.
“Following a comprehensive and strategic search process that included several factors, this marks a significant step forward in establishing a long-term partnership that will enhance the visibility and future of the venue and the region,” their statement said.
Henry said that as part of his offer, the city would receive more than $2 million annually from the naming rights revenue, and the taxpayers would benefit greatly. However, if the city received less than his offer, Henry demanded why the town was not transparent with its choice to the community.
“If someone offered more, then be transparent about the final amount, and I will congratulate the city for doing better,” said Henry. “My goal has always been to either be the top contributor to Corpus Christi or to help create an environment where taxpayers receive the greatest benefit. If someone else made a better offer, the city should be transparent and disclose it immediately. Transparency isn’t optional — it’s essential.”
The San Antonio-based attorney’s offer prolonged a decision that was supposed to be made by late Summer 2024 when the American Bank Center’s original contract with the city was set to expire.
While the money was too much for some city councilmembers, others said Henry’s history of suing partners required turning down the offer.
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