Title
Recommendation to Establish a Community and Economic Benefit Special Events Grant Program to Support Events that Bring Economic, Cultural and/or Community Benefits to the City of Alameda; and
Adoption of Resolution Amending the Fiscal Year 2023-24 General Fund Budget to Appropriate $200,000 from General Fund Residual Fund Balance for the Program. (Base Reuse and Economic Development 10061810)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Jennifer Ott, City Manager
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Historically, the City of Alameda (City) has provided informal subsidies to certain special events, such as the Downtown Alameda Art and Wine Faire, and other public fairs, races and performances. These subsidies took the form of waived fees, free materials and services, and staff time at no cost for extensive technical assistance with permitting.
In order to provide assistance in a more transparent and equitable manner, staff recommends that the City move away from informal subsidies, and instead establish a Community and Economic Benefit Special Events Grant Program to assist large events with fees, services and materials the City previously subsidized. Staff recommends the focus be on subsidizing costs associated with public safety, environmental stewardship, and direct City services and fees.
Staff is recommending adoption of a resolution to appropriate $200,000 from the Residual General Fund fund balance to establish and implement a Community and Economic Benefit Special Events program.
BACKGROUND
Special events have historically played a vital role in the City's community and economy. They are important traditions for many residents and also attract people from around the Bay Area which generates tourism revenue and raises the regional profile of the City. Many of the events are also fundraisers for local nonprofits.
In 2018, City Council formally adopted the Economic Development Strategic Plan (the Plan), which included direction to improve t...
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