Management and operation of the shaboo stage, jillson square and jillson events

The Town of Windham is requesting proposals from qualified organizations or firms to manage and operate the Shaboo Stage, Jillson Square, and Jillson Event Space in Willimantic, Connecticut, with proposals due September 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EDT. No set-asides, preferences, or eligibility restrictions apply; all vendors are eligible to respond.

The scope covers day-to-day management, programming, scheduling, marketing, and operation of the outdoor performance venues. The Town retains ownership and ultimate authority over public policy and major capital decisions. The operator will be responsible for expanding cultural, entertainment, recreational, and community programming; improving event and rental coordination; developing sponsorship and other revenue opportunities; and handling rentals, ticketing, concessions, and vendor activities. The selected operator must execute a written management agreement specifying responsibilities, financial arrangements, reporting requirements, insurance obligations, performance expectations, and termination provisions.

The financial proposal must detail how revenues and operating expenses will be allocated between the operator and the Town. The Town does not prescribe compensation structure and will consider fixed management fees, revenue-sharing arrangements, performance incentives, hybrid structures, or alternative approaches. Proposers must submit a first-year operating budget with stated assumptions.

No estimated contract value, contract term length, or renewal options are specified. Evaluation will be based on overall qualifications, experience, plan quality, programming strategy, marketing approach, and financial arrangement sustainability rather than lowest cost or greatest payment to the Town. The Town retains discretion to interview proposers, request clarification, negotiate terms, seek best and final offers, and reject any or all proposals.

Questions should be directed to Xiomara Capo, Town Manager's Office, at (860) 465-3001 or xcapo@windhamct.gov. Submissions should be sent to the Town Manager's Office at 979 Main Street, Willimantic, CT 06226.