City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 1 of 4
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Culver City Redevelopment Agency (the “Agency”) consider increasing the
number of performances and funding proposed for the Culver City Music Festival
(Music Festival) in Fiscal Years (“FY”) 2008-09 and 2009-10.
BACKGROUND:
The Music Festival is an economic development tool funded by the Agency. The
Music Festival was established fourteen years ago in order to increase pedestrian
and business activity in downtown. During FY 2007-08, staff estimates that the
Music Festival attracted approximately 1,000 people to downtown each week.
In June 2005, the Agency adopted the budget for FY 2006-07, which included
funding for eight concerts. The amount of funds allocated was approximately,
$70,000, which represented an $18,500 reduction.
In December 2006, the Agency authorized execution of a contract with Mr. Gary
Mandel for music producing services. At that time Agency staff was responsible for
marketing, production and fundraising. During the Agency’s discussion of the item,
the number of performances was reduced from thirteen to eight. The Agency
Agenda Item Report and corresponding meeting minutes have been attached for
reference.
Regarding the number of performances, the Agenda Item Report stated:
Meeting Date: 06/02/08 Item Number: A-1
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of the Number of Performances and Funding
Proposed for the Culver City Music Festival in Fiscal Years 2008-09 and 2009-10.
Contact Person/Dept.: Todd Tipton and
Susan Obrow
Phone Number: (310) 253-5783 and 5762
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification: Downtown Business Association (05/29/08); Center Theatre Group
(05/29/08); Mr. Gary Mandell (05/29/08); Culver City Chamber of Commerce (05/29/08);
Master Notification List (05/29/08).
Department Approval:
Sol Blumenfeld (05/21/08)
Executive Director Approval:
Jerry B. Fulwood (05/29/08)
Fiscal Impact Review:
Jeff Muir (05/29/08)
City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 2 of 4
Recently, Culver City has grown as an arts and entertainment center, and residents
and visitors currently have the opportunity to enjoy first run movies, fine art galleries
and live theatre as well as this concert series.
Staff proposes that the eight-week 2007 Culver City Music Festival commence on
Thursday, July 12, 2007 and conclude on Thursday, August 30, 2007. The approved
budget will allow for the presentation of eight concerts maintaining a high quality of
performance and production.
The performances would begin after the school year ends and after the July 4th
weekend. The performances would conclude before Labor Day weekend and before
the school year begins again. This allows for families to attend evening concerts
while school is out of session.
This will allow six weeks for re-grouping, marketing and technical preparation
between ARTWALK Culver City (occurred on June 2, 2007) and the Culver City
Music Festival. Currently, the Cultural Affairs Division does not have the staff
resources to open the Festival earlier.
This also will allow Center Theatre Group (at the Kirk Douglas Theatre) to preview,
open and run its summer presentation for four weeks without concern for the
displacement of theatre patrons from City Hall garage or sound conflicts with the
outdoor festival.
In February 2008, the Agency approved a contract with Mr. Mandel for Music
Festival production services in 2008. This differs from prior years in that the
producer will be entirely responsible for selecting and securing the artists, marketing
the Music Festival, and overseeing the individual performances.
DISCUSSION:
With the Music Festival producer taking more responsibility for the production of the
Music Festival, increasing the number of performances seems possible from a
staffing perspective. If the producer were not entirely responsible for the Music
Festival, staff does not believe all of the events in the Cultural Affairs Work Program
could be accomplished.
Staff spoke with Mr. Mandell about increasing the number of performances and he
believes:
• Eleven performances is the optimum number; City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 3 of 4
• Beginning performances earlier in the summer (about the same time Santa
Monica begins theirs) could improve the public’s awareness of the Music
Festival;
• Performances should conclude prior to Labor Day; and
• The Agency should consider engaging a professional fundraiser for the Music
Festival’s sponsorship campaign.
If additional performances are desired, staff suggests that prior to determining the
performance schedule for the next year, staff work with the music producer to
identify dates that do not conflict with the following:
• ARTWALK Culver City
• Culver City Unified School District’s summer break
• 4
th
of July holiday
• Center Theatre Group’s schedule at the Kirk Douglas Theatre
• Labor Day holiday
• Made in Culver City
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
The Agency approved a $70,000 budget for the Music Festival in FY 06-07 and FY
07-08 resulting in eight performances in summer 2007 and summer 2008. The
estimated cost of adding a concert is $6,750. The budget break down is below:
Budgeted Estimated Additional
Expenditure
Producer Allocation
Artists Fees $20,000 $2,500 per concert
Producer Fee $10,000 $1,000 per concert
Sound Designer Fee $10,000 $1,000 per concert
Marketing Fee $10,000
House Management/
Security/Hospitality $5,000 $500 per concert
Agency Allocation
Cleaning/Building Crew $12,000 $1,500 per concert
Signage $1,000
Additional Production $2,000 $250 per concert
TOTAL BUDGETED $70,000 $6,750 per concert
City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 4 of 4
Total Estimated Additional Cost:
Total 8 concerts $70,000
Total 9 concerts $76,750
Total 10 concerts $83,500
Total 11 concerts $90,250
Marketing Sponsorship dollars are used to improve the audience experience through
amenities such as chairs and lighting. Sponsorship packages are made available to
the community prior to the event and the Agency has practiced a non-aggressive
approach to the annual campaign. In the prior years, an average of approximately
$8,000 in annual revenue has been contributed.
The proposed Music Festival budget for FY09-10 is $75,000. The additional $5,000
recommended for the FY09-10 budget may be used to augment or enhance any part
of the Music Festival based on the needs that year and to compensate for any
reduction in sponsorship funding.
2009 Concert Sponsorship Funding $6500
2010 Concert Sponsorship Funding TBD
ATTACHMENTS:
1. December 4, 2006 Agency Agenda Item Report
2. Agency Minutes from December 4, 2006
MOTION:
That the Culver City Redevelopment Agency:
1. Allocate $20,250 to increase the number of Culver City Music Festival
performances from eight to eleven for Fiscal Year 2008-09 and Fiscal Year 2009-
10.
Or
1. Retain eight concerts for Fiscal Year 2008-09 and Fiscal Year 2009-10 and
consider increasing the number of performances at a later date.
City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 1 of 3
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Culver City Redevelopment Agency (“Agency”) authorize execution of
agreements necessary to implement the 2007 Culver City Music Festival (the
“Festival”).
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Every summer the City Hall Courtyard is transformed into a concert venue with a
family ambiance as the Redevelopment Agency presents free concerts featuring
distinguished, professional musical artists performing for community members and
visitors to Culver City. These concerts generate positive publicity for Culver City and
nurture the economic development of restaurants and other businesses. The
Festival is held on Thursday evenings in the City Hall Courtyard. Over the years, it
has become a much anticipated event and the 12
th
Annual concert series drew
crowds exceeding 1000 people at some concerts.
Staff reviewed several factors while preparing a plan for the 2007 concert series.
Marketing is key to the success of this series and the Culver City Summer Sunset
Music Festival presents a challenge. It is difficult to brand and market a concert
series with so many words and Staff respectfully suggests that the name of the
concert series be changed to the Culver City Music Festival which is simpler and
more concise.
Meeting Date: 12/04/06 Item Number: A4
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of Agreements Required to Implement the 2007
Culver City Music Festival.
Contact Person/Dept.: Susan Obrow Phone Number: (310) 253-5762
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification:
Master Notification List, Downtown Business Association, Cultural Affairs Commission
Department Approval:
Susan Evans (11/16/06)
Exec. Director Approval:
Jerry Fulwood (11/29/06)
City Controller Approval:
Marlee Chang (11/29/06)City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 2 of 3
The approved budget for the 12
th
Annual Festival was $88,500 which allowed for the
presentation of thirteen concerts. The staff report transmittal to the Agency to
approve the budget for FY 06-07 stated a reduction in the Festival’s budget and the
Agency approved that action. The approved budget for the 13
th
Annual Festival is
$70,000 which will allow for the presentation of eight concerts. This budget will
include a competitive performance fee of $2500 per musical artist which will maintain
and even elevate the excellence of each concert.
Another significant factor is the scheduling of the 2007 dates. Recently, Culver City
has grown as an arts and entertainment center and residents and visitors currently
have the opportunity to enjoy first run movies, fine art galleries and live theatre as
well as this concert series. The second annual ARTWALK Culver City will take place
on Saturday, June 2, 2007 and the marketing will be concurrent with the Festival.
Staff proposes that the eight-week 2007 Culver City Music Festival commence on
Thursday, July 12, 2007 and conclude on Thursday, August 30, 2007. The approved
budget will allow for the presentation of eight concerts maintaining a high quality of
performance and production. The performances would start after the school year
ends and after the July 4
th
get-away weekend. The performances would conclude
before Labor Day weekend and before the school year starts again. This will allow
six weeks for re-grouping, marketing and technical preparation between ARTWALK
Culver City and the Culver City Music Festival. Currently, the Cultural Affairs Division
does not have the staff resources to open the Festival earlier.
Also, this will allow Center Theatre Group at the Kirk Douglas Theatre to preview,
open and run its summer presentation, a new musical by David Mamet, for four
weeks without concern for the displacement of theatre patrons from City Hall garage
or sound conflicts with the outdoor festival. Thursday, July 12 would present the only
possible conflict date as CTG has not announced performances at the Kirk Douglas
Theatre for the rest of the summer.
Staff proposes that Gary Mandell of Boulevard Music be approved as the Music
Producer for the 2007 Festival. If the Agency chooses to renew the agreement with
Mr. Mandell, then Staff recommends the approval of $10,000 for a one-year
agreement. Mr. Mandell’s responsibilities focus on the recommendation, negotiation
and coordination of musical artists for the concert series. The City’s Special Events
Producer is responsible for the contracting of the musical artists as well as the
negotiating and contracting with all other Festival staff. The Special Events Producer
is responsible for the marketing, production management, artistic relations and
house management for the concert series. As further refinement to the producing of
the concert series, it is proposed that future billing state that the Culver City
Redevelopment Agency presents the 13
th
Annual Culver City Music Festival
produced by Gary Mandell of Boulevard Music and the Cultural Affairs Division of
the City of Culver City. Staff further recommends that Mr. Mandell, attend one
meeting to review musical styles and musical artists with the Special Events
Producer. Mr. Mandell will secure musical artists, subsequent to receiving approval City of Culver City, California
Redevelopment Agency Agenda Item Report
Page 3 of 3
from the Special Events Producer, throughout the booking period of February 1,
2007 to March 31, 2007. Staff recommends that the booking of the artists be
completed by March 2007 so that a strategic marketing campaign can commence.
The Special Events Producer will be act as staff liaison to the Redevelopment
Agency Board and the Cultural Affairs Commission for the Culver City Music
Festival.
Staff recommends that the Agency approve the agreements with Gary Mandell as
Music Producer and with Technology Artists as Sound Technicians for the 2007
Culver City Music Festival. The contract for Technology Artists is $10,000.00 which
includes services for eight concerts at City Hall.
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
The total appropriated amount for the Culver City Music Festival in FY 06-07 is
$70,000. Sponsorship money can augment the Agency funding and Staff will
continue to explore alternative sources of funding for the concerts.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit A - Agreements with Gary Mandell for Producer Services
Exhibit B - Agreements with Technology Artists for Sound Services
MOTION:
That the Culver City Redevelopment Agency:
1. Authorize execution of a $10,000 contract representing a one-year
agreement with Gary Mandell to provide Music Producer services for the
2007 Summer Sunset Music Festival.
2. Authorize execution of a $10,000 contract representing an agreement with
Technology Artists to provide Sound services for the 2007 Summer Sunset
Music Festival.
These Minutes are not Official until
Approved by the Culver City Redevelopment Agency
CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MINUTES
December 4, 2006
Call to Order The meeting of the Culver City Redevelopment Agency was
called to order at 6:00 p.m. with five members present.
-0-
Recess to Closed
Session
CS-I
Conference with Legal Counsel — Existing Litigation
Re: Culver City Redevelopment Agency vs. SJ Woo, LLC,
a limited liability company et al.
Case No. Los Angeles Superior Court No. BC342759
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
-0-
CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 3727 Robertson Boulevard offer to
Purchase
Agency Negotiator: Susan Evans, Assistant Executive
Director and Murray Kane, Agency
General Counsel
Other Parties
Negotiators: Shirley Kreiman
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
-0-
Reconvene Chair Rose reconvened the meeting at 7:05 p.m.
-0-
Invocation / Pledge of
The invocation was given by Jerry Fulwood, and the Pledge
Allegiance
of Allegiance was led by Assistant Executive Director Susan
Evans.
-0-Members Present: Steven Rose, Agency Chair
Scott Malsin, Agency Vice Chair
Alan Corlin
Carol Gross
Gary Silbiger
CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 2 of 14
Roll Call
-0-
Staff Present Susan Evans, Assistant Executive Director; Todd Tipton,
Redevelopment Administrator; Murray Kane, Agency
General Counsel; Kellee Fritzal, Economic Development
Administrator; Chris Evans, Senior Management Analyst;
Susan Obrow, Events Specialist; and Alice Prasad, Agency
Secretary.
-0-
Report on Closed
Chair Rose indicated that no action was taken in closed
Session
session that requires disclosure.
-0-
Public Comment- None.
Non-Agendized Items
-0-
Recess/Reconvene
Chair Rose recessed the Redevelopment Agency meeting
to the City Council meeting from 7:07 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
-0-
Public Hearing
PH-1 A Public Hearing to
Amend the Purchase
and Sale Agreement for
Property Located at 4043
Irving Place
Moved by Ms. Gross, seconded by Mr. Corlin and
unanimously approved to receive and file the affidavits of
mailing, publication and posting of notices, and
correspondence received in response to the public hearing
notices.
Agency Secretary Prasad announced that no
correspondence was received regarding the proposed
disposition of real property.CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 3 of 14
Consent Calendar:
C-1 Secretary's Report
C-2 Minutes of
November 6, 2006 and
November 20, 2006
Chair Rose declared the public discussion open at 7:17 p.m.
No speakers came forward.
Moved by Mr. Malsin, seconded by Mr. Corlin and
unanimously approved to close the public hearing at 7:18
Moved by Mr. Ma!sin, seconded by Ms. Gross and
unanimously passed to approve the Third Amendment to the
Purchase and Sale Agreement with Metro Real Estate and
Development for 4043 Irving Place.
-0-
Moved by Mr. Corlin, seconded by Mr. Ma'sin and
unanimously passed to receive and file the Secretary's
Report.
-0-
Moved by Mr. Carlin, seconded by Mr. Ma!sin and
unanimously passed to approve the minutes of November 6,
2006 and November 20, 2006 as written.
-0-
C-3 Cash Disbursements Moved by Mr. Corlin, seconded by Mr. Malsin and
unanimously passed to approve cash disbursements from
November 13, 2006 through November 24, 2006.
-0-
A-1 Consideration to
Award a Construction
Contract to Malibu
Pacific Tennis Courts
Inc. for the Cardiff
Parking Structure
Security Improvements
Project and
Authorization to Enter
into a Professional
Services Agreement
with CBM Consulting
Moved by Ms. Gross, seconded by Mr. Ma[sin and
unanimously passed to 1) Authorize entering into a
construction contract with Malibu Pacific for a not-to-contract
fee of $239,700; 2) Authorize the Public Works Director/City
Engineer to negotiate change orders in not-to-exceed
amount of $14,500, if necessary; 3) Authorize entering into a
contract with CBM Consulting Inc. for the construction
management of the Cardiff project, for a not-to-exceed fee
of $22,340; 4) Direct the Agency Counsel to prepare the
necessary documents and authorize the Agency Assistant
Executive Director to approve the documents.CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 4 of 14
Inc., for Construction
Management Services
-0-
A-2 Issue a Certificate
of Completion for Miller
Automotive Properties
for the completion of all
obligations contained
within the Disposition
and Development
Agreement for the
Development of Miller
Toyota and Honda
Moved by Ms. Gross, seconded by Mr_ Ma!sin and
unanimously passed that the Redevelopment Agency:
approve a Certificate of Completion for Miller Automotive
Properties for the completion of all obligations contained
within the DDA.
Mike Miller congratulated the Agency on a great job
revitalizing the City.
Chair Rose reported that Mike Miller had worked hard to
help the City.
Ms. Gross appreciated Mr. Miller's comments and
acknowledged that the business people had contributed a
great deal to the change in the City.
-0-
A-3 Consideration of
Parking Strategy and
Parking Policies for all
Agency-Owned and/or
Operated Parking
Facilities
Management Analyst Evans presented a summary of the
material of record.
Andrew Weissman, 9726 Washington Boulevard,
questioned the proposed Agency use of the downtown
parking structure for new businesses if Agency obligations
have been met. He expressed concern with parking for new
developments including Parcel B, concern with current
parking shortages and businesses with paid permits that can
not find parking spaces, concern that film companies would
be accommodated before local businesses, skepticism that
limiting downtown meter spaces to two hours would prevent
meter feeding, and he discussed other methods of
deterrence.
Heidi Fahringer deferred her time to Mr. Weissman.
Mr. Weissman questioned who chose the targeted
businesses that parking would be provided to and he sought
clarification about the recommendation that new
construction meet parking requirements on a discretionaryCCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 5 of 14
basis. He suggested installing devices to indicate how many
parking spaces are available in each structure and he
supported coordinated pricing for all structures. He reported
concern about the availability of curbside parking and he
wanted to make sure that the limited parking is fairly and
equitably shared. He reported that the Downtown Business
Association proposed that the meters downtown be
increased from 50 cents per hour to $1 per hour with a
portion of the increase allocated to maintenance.
Responding to Mr. Corlin, Management Analyst Evans
explained that the impact of the Zoning Code amendment to
be approved by the Planning Commission would be limited.
Redevelopment Administrator Tipton reported that in 2001 a
concerted effort was made to create a surplus of parking to
facilitate the ongoing development of downtown. He related
that the Agency operated the structures at a severe deficit
for many years and the goal is to keep the structures as full
as possible to just break even. At one time businesses
could use the spaces at no cost but now the Agency is
proposing to change that and take back control of some of
those spaces. Those spaces will be offered, if they are
available, for a use that contributes to downtown but he
noted while the original focus was on the theatre and then
restaurants, now the Agency is focusing on retail.
Agency Legal Counsel Kane explained that the form of the
change would require an ordinance of the City Council
originating from a recommendation by the Planning
Commission.
Responding to Mr. Silbiger, Redevelopment Administrator
Tipton indicated it was their intent to bring back criteria for
the discretionary decisions and he then explained current
requirements for businesses and retail. He added that the
Agency would make the discretionary decisions through
Owner Participation Agreements and Disposition and
Development Agreements.
Responding to Mr. Silbiger, Management Analyst Evans
reported that there were approximately 2,082 parking
spaces in the City including on-street and curbside spaces.
He added that if businesses were required to parkCCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 6 of 14
themselves per the code, about 1,404 spaces would be
needed with the planned development of Parcel B and
without Parcel B, 1,048 spaces are needed.
Redevelopment Administrator Tipton reported that there are
875 monthly parkers.
Responding to Mr. Silbiger, Management Analyst Evans
stated that there would be a surplus of 900 spaces available
with development of Parcel B.
Redevelopment Administrator Tipton stated that once Parcel
B is in place, if patrons exceed the anticipated demand, the
fill in and interim uses will have to be sacrificed.
Responding to Mr. Silbiger, Management Analyst Evans
explained that the Canfield parking lot had 26 parking
spaces including 12 tandem spaces and staff could return
with a study to examine converting it into a paid public
parking lot.
Chair Rose requested converting the compact spaces to
regular sized spaces to make it a much more usable lot.
Mr. Silbiger questioned the thought behind converting the
Canfield lot as it is a bit far from some parts of downtown
and Management Analyst Evans stated that it is close to
Parcel B. He added that they wanted employees to park in
the structures so that convenient parking would be available
for short term visitors.
Mr. Malsin received clarification that all businesses in
downtown had their needs met through arrangements. He
stated that new businesses would be able to participate in
parking and that the issue really related to new construction
which has to provide their own parking.
Mr. Ma'sin suggested considering some kind of financing
arrangement where the Agency helps fund construction of
additional public parking that they can lease back and sub
lease to satisfy other parking needs as he felt it could be a
good use of financial resources. He asserted that
convenient parking would keep downtown thriving and he
pointed out that as parking becomes more difficult to find theCCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 7 of 14
City might have to reconsider leasing spaces to auto
dealers.
Mr. Malsin expressed support for signage indicating the
number of spaces available and Mr. Corlin recalled that
parking lot software previously purchased allowed for that to
be added on easily.
Economic Administrator Fritzal indicated that the Agency is
investigating that.
Responding to Andrew Weissman, Assistant Executive
Director Evans indicated they had the ability to track parking
with quarterly and monthly reports on parking demands at all
times of every day. She indicated that there would be a
public hearing before changes to criteria were formally
adopted.
Moved by Ms. Gross, seconded by Mr. Malsin, and
unanimously passed to approve Redevelopment Agency
Parking Policy recommendations.
-0-
A-4 Consideration of
Agreements Required
to Implement the 2007
Culver City Music
Festival
Events Supervisor Susan Obrow presented the material of
record.
Charles Dillingham, Managing Director of The Center
Theatre Group, reported that from their point of view, their
partnership with the City has been a resounding success.
He related significant noise issues with the summer concert
series last summer and he thanked Chair Rose and Mr.
Malsin for meeting to address those issues for the coming
summer. He expressed support for the proposed schedule
for 2007 and bade a fond farewell to Susan Evans.
Frank Campagna, a regular attendee of the summer concert
series, asked the Board to revisit the question of the overall
budget to see if it can be maintained at 12 presentations as
opposed to the six planned for the coming year.
Efrem Violin expressed support for Gary Mandell and he
noted that some items were let out to bid and some things
were not.CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 8 of 14
Allen Duncan asserted that the public had been told that
there was a consideration that the number of concerts would
be cut down but that they would be informed when there
would be a meeting about it. He questioned why there was
no chance for public input on cutting the number of concerts
and he offered to identify sponsors to make up the shortfall.
He requested a delay in the voting for two weeks so he
could come back with the shortfall in hand and enable a full
summer series.
Mr. Silbiger noted that the surplus $9,000 from last year's
sponsorships, along with $70,000 budgeted for the series
this year and an additional $9,000 for this year's
sponsorships would total $88,000 which is the amount
budgeted last year for the full 13 concerts. He pointed out
that the series has been very popular, it has met the
important objectives of bringing people in to the community
who utilize all the businesses, and the money is available,
but it is a matter of priorities.
Mr. Silbiger received clarification that the amount budgeted
for the graphic designer was to be used for the brochure,
advertising, and any branding of the concert series.
Mr. Mandell indicated that in the past $1,000 was spent on
graphic design but the current budget allocates $5,000 for
that. He added that a total of $2,500 had been spent on
advertising last year and it seemed to work pretty well.
Mr. Silbiger expressed support for Mr. Mandell remaining as
concert producer and final arbiter of the type of music
presented. He suggested taking a survey of concert
attendees to ascertain the types of music and performers
everyone wants to hear and see.
Mr. Silbiger moved to continue to have 13 concerts and to
have Gary Mandell serve as the producer of the concerts,
choosing the performers with input from the community and
staff, as was done this year. There was no second.
Ms. Gross clarified that no question had been raised as to
using anyone else and she added that two years ago they
had a wide ranging formal RFP for the roles in the series butCCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 9 of 14
that is not done every year. She supported the name
change and noted that the role of the Agency is one of the
things being considered. The series is a service provided to
the community that a great many people enjoy but she felt
that should be done out of the City budget as it is not the
role of Redevelopment. The concert series was initiated to
help bring activity and vitality to downtown and that has been
done. The venue has limited capacity so they can not
continue to expand the draw and she felt that they kept
drawing the same people.
Ms. Gross noted that from at least midday on Thursdays
there is constant activity preparing for the concert and the
cost in staff time is not reflected. She felt it appropriate for
the Agency to sponsor different activities.
Mr. Corlin observed that it is clear the series is a great
success. He commented that last year the concerts were
produced for $6,800 per concert and he was not sure how
they would be saving money this year by spending $8,700
per concert.
In response to an assertion from Assistant Executive
Director Evans that they would maintain quality
performances, Mr. Carlin questioned whether there had
been a danger of losing that.
Assistant Executive Director Evans indicated that one of
their goals is to provide programs that appeal to the
community and get great press beyond the local
newspapers. She added that beyond the cost of each
concert is the staff time and she noted that the Cultural
Affairs Division now offered additional programming outside
of downtown with the same two staff members they had
three years ago.
Mr. Fulwood indicated that their concern is maintaining the
high level of service that the City is accustomed to.
Mr. Corlin remembered a number of years back when the
City put on an event year after year that lost money and he
was told by staff that the event would always lose money but
with new thoughts from staff and the community, the Fiesta
is running at a surplus now.CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 10 of 14
Mr. Corlin encouraged pursuing sponsorships so the event
is not a drag on Redevelopment. He agreed that
Redevelopment had done an excellent job and had helped
reinvigorate downtown although he expressed
disappointment that the business association had not
latched on to it. He acknowledged noise issues but pointed
out that the concert series predated the Center Theatre
Group (CTG) and he suggested working together so CTG
started their performance later, have the theatre go dark on
certain nights or install soundproofing in the building.
Mr. Corlin proposed various scenarios to expand the series
while taking the burden off of the Agency. He added that
when he voted to decrease funding by $18,000 he did not
know that the concerts were going to be decreased by 39%
and he reiterated that he did not see how they were going to
realize more value by paying nearly $2,000 more per
concert. He encouraged aggressively pursuing
sponsorships because he felt the Agency should not have to
shoulder the burden of the series but he felt the number and
quality of concerts should be maintained.
Responding to Mr. Malsin, Events Supervisor Obrow
detailed the number of concerts presented by surrounding
cities. Mr. Malsin reported that he and his family attended
11 out of 13 concerts last year and they also enjoyed the
ArtWalk event. He acknowledged that the small staff could
only do so much and he supported having eight concerts.
He complimented Mr. Mandell on a job well done.
Chair Rose related that the original purpose of the concert
series was economic development but he believed that
downtown would have succeeded without the series.
Chair Rose complimented everyone for their hard work and
he discussed the fact that the Agency has a certain sunset
date and there will be many issues the Agency will have to
deal with in the coming years. He asserted that the
recommendation of giving eight concerts is not just an
economic one. The Kirk Douglas Theatre is a concern and
he noted that the Agency had extended its services with the
Art of series and Art Walk. He reported that the Los
Angeles Philharmonic would perform at Robert FrostCCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 11 of 14
Auditorium next week and there were an array of cultural
events offered in the City, not just the summer series.
Chair Rose took issue with the assertion that things were
hidden from people noting that the item was voted on at the
budget meeting and no one spoke about it. He felt the
proposal was a balanced year round approach to music in
Culver City that did not favor one group over another and he
asserted that the City was more than City Hall and the name
change to the Culver City Music Festival reflected that.
Mr. Silbiger appreciated the expansion of culture in the City
noting that most cities can do several cultural things at one
time and he felt that staff was competent and also
augmented by many volunteers. He suggested that if Gary
Mandell had full responsibility of producing the events as he
did this year and staff did not have to meet with him to
approve each concert, time could be saved. He supported
lessening the burden on staff and felt that if more money
was raised and people could be hired that would help the
cause for a 13 concert series.
Assistant Executive Director Evans noted that additional
funds and further privatizing of the concert would be of great
interest to staff. She stated that Community Development
staff would never pursue sponsorships as that could put
them in a bad position, but she noted that private parties
could pursue those sponsorships.
Mr. Fulwood pointed out that meetings about artists were the
least of the time spent on the event and the behind the
scenes preparations are the most time consuming. He
expressed concern about safety issues with the event being
held on City property and he observed that things didn't
always work out as planned. He added that it would be
tricky to have it run by a private entity on City property as
staff time would still be used.
Ms. Gross found the proposed scheduled to be more
practical as concert attendance is lighter in June when
people are busy with graduation and there is June Gloom.
She noted that many people are also busy around the 4 th of
July so she felt that starting after the 4th of July made much
sense as does ending before Labor Day. She added thatCCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 12 of 14
the plan sought to balance the concert series with other
cultural events and she pointed out that the series was a
huge endeavor on staffs part.
Mr. Corlin felt that proposing to pay $2,000 more per concert
was ludicrous and he felt they were losing an opportunity to
investigate the enhancement of sponsorships. He agreed
that the series should not be the responsibility of the City but
he pointed out that they let outside entities use City Hall
unattended all the time. He agreed with the name change
and wanted the motion split so they could vote on that
separately.
Chair Rose stated that the cost of staff time was not being
considered in the cost of $8,000 per concert and he thought
that it would cost a private entity $15,000 per show to stage
a concert.
Moved by Ms. Gross and seconded by Mr. Malsin to 1)
Authorize execution of a $10,000 contract representing a
one-year agreement with Gary Mandell to provide Music
Producer services for the 2007 Summer Sunset Music
Festival. 2) Authorize execution of a $10,000 contract
representing an agreement with Technology Artists to
provide sound services for the 2007 Summer Sunset Music
Festival. A voice vote indicated the following: AYES: Gross,
Malsin, Silbiger and Rose NOES: Corlin
Moved by Ms. Gross, seconded by Mr. Malsin, and
unanimously passed to change the name of the Summer
Sunset Music Series to the Culver City Music Festival.
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Public Comment for Allen Duncan questioned whether it was possible to initiate
Items Not on the Agenda discussions to facilitate private sector funding for 12
concerts.
Chair Rose indicated that Community Development staff
could not be soliciting funds_
Mr. Duncan clarified that staff would give guidelines to the
private sector as to what they could and could not do.CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 13 of 14
Chair Rose indicated that he would turn it over to Executive
Director Fulwood and he could bring back a report.
Mr. Silbiger encouraged Mr. Duncan to contact staff or
Agency members about that and Chair Rose stated that staff
did not have direction to talk about fundraising activities.
Mr. Duncan questioned whether additional concerts could be
staged for the 2007 series if funds were made available in
the next week.
Ms. Gross clarified that as a result of the vote only eight
concerts would be staged and she noted that it was not all
about the money.
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Staff Reports,
Announcements,
Receipt of
Correspondence and
Requests for Future
Agenda Items.
Redevelopment Administrator Tipton invited the community
to an outreach meeting for the Sepulveda Project at El
Rincon Elementary School, 11177 Overland Avenue on
December 5 at 7 p.m. for the purpose of receiving input from
the community.
Events Supervisor Obrow looked forward to seeing everyone
at the Los Angeles Philharmonic free neighborhood concert
on Tuesday, December 12.
Assistant Executive Director Evans said goodbye after four
years.
Executive Director Fulwood stated that Assistant Executive
Director Evans had mentored many people and would
definitely be missed. He indicated that she had a vision for
the Agency and the Council and had worked very hard in
making that vision a reality. He observed that she took a low
profile but had done an extraordinary job and developed an
excellent team.
Mr. Silbiger found it refreshing to work with Assistant
Executive Director Evans who was very knowledgeable and
more than willing to listen to other people's views and he
appreciated that. He observed that she had the
community's needs in mind rather than her own ego or
philosophy.STEVEN ROSE, Chairp
Redevelopment Agency
CCRA Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2006
Page 14 of 14
Mr. Silbiger and Chair Rose discussed campaign support
and open disclosure
Ms. Gross felt that Assistant Executive Director Evans
catalyzed things, made them happen with style and pizzazz
and brought them to fruition. She illustrated the possibilities
of what the City could be and should be doing.
Mr. Corlin commented that Assistant Executive Director
Evans had left Redevelopment with money to work with and
her actions and mentoring would be felt for many years to
come.
Mr. Malsin expressed admiration for Assistant Executive
Director Evans and her vision for the City noting that she
had a large hand in the vitality of the City and her leadership
fostered a vibrant staff with a broad focus on the glamour of
redevelopment and making sure everything worked well.
Chair Rose commented that the staff Assistant Executive
Director Evans built, recruited and stole all had an
entrepreneurial spirit.
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Adjournment There being no further business, it was moved by Ms.
Gross, seconded by Mr. Corlin and unanimously passed to
adjourn the meeting at 9:35 p.m., in the memory of Charles
Deen's (Parks & Recreation Commission) sister, Barbara
Deen to the next regular meeting on Monday, December 18,
2006, at 7:00 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Council Chambers.
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ALICE PRASAD
Recording Secretary