Completed in 2003, the North/South complex was constructed without the capacity to burn natural gas appliances for exhibitor displays. This fact disturbed members of the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA), who depend on the availability of natural gas to fuel their appliances.
In January 2004, GAMA members, who display in the American Gas Industry booth, of which GAMA is a sponsor, were given an unsatisfactory report from OCCC show management. They were informed that GAMA would be allowed to bring in one five-pound canister of propane each day and that it could not sit within 20 feet of another gas-burning appliance.