Omnibus Activation Resolution No.1

[Steve Adler]

Council Member colleagues,

At this link (http://www.mayoradler.com/omnibus-activ ... ft-122116/) is a draft resolution that activates several programs that staff identified in response to the Austin Music and Creative Ecosystem Omnibus Resolution and that were approved in the most recent budget. The purpose of the resolution is to activate findings and recommendations from the Music and Creative Eco-system Omnibus Resolution and approved FY2016-17 City Budget. There are 4 parts in the Omnibus Activation Resolution No.1. These include:

* Case study implementation for extended hours for Red River Cultural District (RRCD) Venues

* Implementation of $200,000 transition funding for performing arts venues

* Implementation of $75,000 for Revenue Development platform

* Implementation of $200,000 funding for the creation of an Entertainment Services Group and the Nightlight Initiative

As you recall, the Omnibus resolution was approved by Council on February 26th followed by multiple forms of input via music town halls, social media, commission meetings, and public hearings. On June 27th, staff released a 67 page report of recommendations in response to the Omnibus resolution. The staff report provide 10 priority recommendations in the areas of affordable space, agent of change, cultural tourism, entertainment license, incentives/tools/loans, land use regulations, music genre development, permitting and licensing, professional development, and revenue development. The City budget provided for $475,000 to implement the items identified in this resolution. Our interest is to move their items forward in an expeditious manner. The purpose of posting on the message board at this time is to get this on everyone’s radar for our upcoming meeting. Please contact Frank Rodriguez in my office if you have any questions during the holidays. Thank you and Happy Holidays.

[Leslie Pool]

Mayor, thanks for the additional impetus to move the Music and Creative Ecosystem Omnibus forward. The performing and creative arts are important to Austin's character. I continue to support this effort, and agree that tangible commitment is key.

I would like to add my name as a co-sponsor to bring the item to Council.

Happy holidays and see you in the New Year!

Leslie

[Michael Searle]

Mayor,

Councilmember Troxclair would also like to express her support for these initiatives, especially the extended hours for the Red River District venues. In December, the Economic Opportunity took up this item and we heard from members of the community and the venues that this opportunity would have a significant economic impact for the venues, the employees, and Austin musicians. Please let us know how we might help with this initiative.

Thank you for your attention and work on these very important matters.

Best,

Michael Searle