Bridge Center Use Policy

This policy covers all use of our Bridge Center (BC) besides our regularly-scheduled, sanctioned games, unit-sponsored events, and member use. Use of the BC shall be governed by this policy. All general uses require the approval by the BC Manager, or the Board of Directors. Use shall not exceed four hours, includes only the Banquet Room, and may not use any BC services or supplies (except as listed below). Contact the BC Manager for rates exceeding this time.

1. Types of Use

• A Member Use is a request by a BC member for a personal party or meeting with 10 or more people. Examples are birthday parties for a member’s immediate family.
• A Non-Member Use is any event requested by a non-member of our unit. A BC member must act as the sponsor, be present at the event, and is responsible for turning off lights and locking up if necessary. This use requires pre-approval by the Board of Directors.

2. Availability of the Bridge Center

The user must check with the BC Manager and our online calendar(s) before requesting to schedule any event to insure that there are no conflicts.

3. General Use

Requests for use must be arranged with the BC Manager. Time should be allowed for review by the Board of Directors if necessary, which usually meets once a month. On approval of a use request, the use agreement must be completed and returned to the BC Manager, accompanied by payment and proof of insurance (if a non-member event), at least 14 days prior to the event date. Failure to comply may result in cancellation of the use.

Rates:

• The refundable deposit may be used to cover any necessary cleanup, repairs or replacement of missing equipment, or any other costs incurred by BC on behalf of the user. An itemized list of all use costs will be provided to the user after the event with a refund of deposit or request for payment, as appropriate.

4. Duties of User

• Making coffee and the use of the kitchen is included in the use rate. Cups, dishes and utensils used by participants should be run through the dishwasher (90 seconds) and restocked. Chairs, bidding boxes, and BridgeMates, if moved, should be replaced as originally found. Any litter should be picked up.
• If this is the last event of the day, the lights should be turned off and the building’s exits locked.

5. Insurance

A Member Use will normally be covered by the BC insurance policy. A Non-Member Use must show that the Palo Alto Unit is named as an additional insured during the period of use for bodily injury liability and property damage. A Certificate of Insurance must accompany the use contract. This may be obtained from your insurance company. Users are responsible for their personal items.

6. Other Requirements

• The Bridge Center Manager will assure that all necessary arrangements have been made.
• The occupancy of the BC TBD.
• Cancellation of a use should be made as early as possible. Failure to comply may result in loss of use fee.