Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Officials Get Greedy, Runs 19 Food Vendors Off

KOAT - Several long-time vendors are pulling out of this year's Balloon Fiesta because of a change in their contract. Steve Chavez of Chavez New Mexican Foods read off a list of vendors that have bowed out. “Chavez New Mexican Foods, after 28 years: Leaving. Perico's: Leaving. Rex Hamburgers: Leaving.”
Former City Attorney Pete Dinelli represents 19 local vendors. He spent time negotiating with Balloon Fiesta officials this week about a new contract this year. His clients were not happy with having to pay a higher rental rate, which is 30 percent of their gross.
Chavez explained how he cannot afford the increase.

“Our employee cost: 30 percent,” he said. “Our inventory cost: 30 percent. Our State of New Mexico gross receipt tax: 7 percent. Ovation comes in: 30 percent. And that leaves us with a 3 percent profit. You cannot make it.” Dinelli proposed a change. “It was a 15-percent increase with a flat fee,” he said. “They rejected that outright, and didn't even make a counter offer is what amazes me.” Read full story here: News New Mexico

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Officials Get Greedy, Runs 19 Food Vendors Off