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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Committees - Parks and Human Services - 08/08/1995 *PARKS COMMITTEE MINUTE AUGUST 8, 1995 Council Present: Christi Houser, Chair; Paul Mann and Jim Bennett Staff Present: Tom Brubaker, John Hodgson, Charlie Lindsey, Lori Hogan, John Hillman, Helen Wckstrom, Jim McDonald, Tracey Wickersham and Lisa Gaylord Other: Grace Hiranaka, Dart Hiranaka, 26118 Woodland Way South, Kent, WA 98031; Greg Oberst, 12206 SE 221st, Kent, WA 98031; Vicki Heppner, 25442 Lake Wilderness Lane SE, Maple Valley,WA 98038; JoAnn Wesson , 21717 96th Place South, Kent, WA 98031 Chairperson Houser called the meeting to order at 4:37 p.m. Councilmember Bennett had not arrived yet. RESOURCE CENTER RE-WIRE: John Hodgson told Councilmembers that this subject could go to Operations Committee, but their next meeting had been canceled. Councilmember Orr, in concurrence with Jon Johnson, told John to send this item to Parks Committee and they will approve it if the Parks Committee does. The Resource Center has a wiring problem because the system is fairly old and needs to be re- done. They have had computer problems and an electrical outage. The amount requested for repairs in the 1996 CIP budget is $50,000. According to May Miller, thq Finance Director, the money is available in this year's budget. Two repairs are needed right away. If not the full amount, at least $35,000 for the electrical re-wire, telephone and data re-wire, which is needed now. These electrical problems have had a significant impact on staff. Charley Lindsey and John Hillman were available for questions. Councilmember Mann had no questions and concurred, Chair Houser seconded. The motion was passed 2-0. MASK THEATRE FACILITY USE: Jim Bennett arrived. John reported that two City Council meetings ago, MASK Theatre gave a presentation of request to consider Kent Commons as their permanent home, scheduling all performances annually, at a reduced Recreation rental rate. Three Parks staff members met with MASK. Representatives of MASK were present. The request is to perform at Kent Commons under the umbrella of the Parks and Recreation Department. MASK requires a permanent home for audience appeal, to pursue long term grants, and to secure plays. They currently utilize Kent Commons, Senior Center, and Resource Center. The two latter are not acoustically set up for performances. Most theatre companies request permission to use for plays six months in advance. There is precedent; the Carco Theatre runs through the City Renton for the Valley Players and Burien Little Theatre runs through the City of Burien at the. ,H4ine Performing Arts; they receive favorable rental rates. MASK is asking for 3 weekends,In;e row, 3 times a year. They also require 1-2 hours a night the week prior. Lori Hogan gave a historical background on the City's relationship with MASK. In the fall of 1992 the Arts Commission and the Parks Department came together and MASK began. There are a variety of ways the department supports MASK. (1) Through a re-grant process of Page 1 Parks Committee Meeting Mites August 8, 1995 •. the Arts Commission for the past three years they have received an annual grant that has progressively increased. They are the highest award winner of nine. (2) They are currently are at the assessed internal rate which is $16 per hour. (3) Responsibilities that other renters would be expected to perform are waived. (4) They are given the opportunity to have fund raisers at summer concerts and Winterfest at no charge. (5) They have publicity in City brochures, event calendars and newsletters. FINANCIAL IMPACT Performance dates were provided. The 18 performance dates requested by MASK annually nets $1,440, compared to the Commons being rented at 100% capacity which nets $9,000. Lori continued to say that the week prior to MASK's performances technical time to prepare is require;, this is a challenge due to the fact that their performance site is typically held for classes during the week. Weekly Commons staff is asked to provide reduced or free rates. The staff tries to remain impartial in their procedures. Lori suggested the following options: 1. Allow MASK to reserve one series of performance dates at the Commons, Senior Center and Resource Center. Rental would be assessed at the Recreation rate. 2. Allow MASK to reserve one series of performance dates at the Commons and one series of dates at the Senior Center at the Recreation rental rate. MASK would be responsible for finding a third performance site. 3. Approve MASK's proposal to consider the Commons their permanent home, scheduling all performances on an annual basis, at a reduced Recreation rental rate. 4. Require MASK to follow the same rental procedure as all other rental groups. Fees would be assessed according to established fee schedules. In all options, dates would be reserved annually on a space available basis. Parks and Recreation class dates will not be altered to accommodate rehearsal time. John expressed concern about the possibility of other groups requesting the same thing. Chair Houser requested clarification regarding the difference of what MASK pays and the public pays. Lori explained that there are not usually classes on Friday and Saturday night since they are prime rental nights for the public. The usual charge for the time allocations of 10 hours is $500. John explained that the fee that MASK receives is equivalent to what the department assesses itself. In essence MASK is one of the programs. MASK spokesperson Greg Oberst, a trustee with the board, came forward to say only one of the options are viable for them and that is to allow them to have all their shows at the Commons at the recreation rate. The other options would force them to make changes; dissolving or moving. Page 2 ..Parks Committee Meeting Outes �.; August 8, 1995 They must have one location to operate like a professional theatre company. Chair Houser asked if MASK had been working with the Performing Arts Center, adding that Kent doesn't have a theatre. Greg said that was a community problem, Commons is as close as Kent has. They are wanting to salvage the 1995-1996 season. Councilmember Mann asked about the quality of the plays. If we endorse MASK, is there any way we can have a say in the plays that are presented. Greg said they are sensitive to the community. JoAnn Wesson said they do not wish to offend, but attract the community. Initially the group hoped to put on a children's theatre piece, classical piece and comedy. She summarized the plays that they have offered. A problem with children's theatre is you need a matinee. They choose plays depending on acceptability, content, availability and production values. Councilmembers expressed concern about other groups requesting these privileges. John suggested establishing a third rental rate. Chair Houser said under the umbrella everything would have to be okayed through John. John said there would have to be an advisory capacity. Lori shared that the Arts Commission doesn't pre-approve performances, but values their selections. If there is deviation, it is up to the Arts Commission to continue future funding or not. John mentioned again we would have to put some monitoring mechanism in place. Chair Houser inquired about legalities. Tom said there could be a problem with "gift of public funds." The City is prohibited to give money outside the City unless they are needy or poor. The reduced rate is a defacto gift of$34 per hour. There may also need to be control over content, with certain conditions. Bennett said he understands the concern of revenue, but a community theatre affects the quality of life. Maybe we're over charging the other folks. He wants to support the theatre. Let them prove their accountability; it takes certain type of building to accommodate their needs. For continuity, it would be better to be held at one place. Chairperson Mann asked Tom to look into the "gift of public funds" issue. Tom said he could and suggests that Council needs to decide if it wants to sponsor a theatre company, provide a permanent home, and set conditions like a contract. Council would be taping MASK under their wing more. JoAnn stated MASK has been under their umbrella from the beginning, and has been blessed with the discount rate. They do not have the technical expertise to relocate and brought their plight to Council. Councilmember Bennett asked Tom to write a one year agreement withi stl�,Wards and suggested Councilmembers attend some of the plays; Tom consented. Chaff,,! r suggested MASK increase their revenue to pay the $500. She agrees that we show ` them one year. Lori asked if that should be a goal expressed in the contract. John wants, precedence setting. John would like to see added financial accountability, and have a contrast by the next meeting. JoAnn is hoping to get Steel Magnolia for the October performance; they Weint recognizable titles. Chair Houser suggested monetary goals could be increased in increments. JoAnn said they have the lowest ticket price in the area. John says the show will go on, even if,MASK only gets close to their goal. Page 3 Parks Committee Meeting Minutes August 8, 1995 Tom will put together an agreement to include financial incremental rent for the next year with the ability for the Parks Department to approve and check on "gift of public funds." A meeting with MASK will be scheduled to discuss a contract. Starting with a trial basis for a year avoids precedence setting. Houser says it should have gone to mayor's office. Tom clarified that it is still subject to final approval of Kent City Council. PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES: Glenn Nelson Tennis Court: resurfaced and we already have impact from rollerbladers. Skateboard Committee: The committee continues to meet to prepare to address the Council. John visited a nice Skateboa rd/Ro I lerb lade Park in Moses Lake. Titus Park will be ready to dedicate in a couple of weeks. Midway Reservoir: Still waiting for paperwork on the Midway Reservoir. Helen shared a concern about The City of Seattle not wanting to sell. Miniature Golf Course: It has made as much money as last year already. Golf Landscaping promises to be done so synthetic turf can be put out this weekend. They start paying fines after Friday of$550 per day. Youth/Teen Program: The Lighthouse program is down for three weeks because school is getting ready to begin. Youth Employment Program: The Press will be out with a story tomorrow. Congress is in the process of eliminating the Youth Employment program; It barely passed this year. John will write a letter to our local representatives for signatures. There are 22 youths making money and fixing our parks. Councilmembers consented to giving their signatures. The youth have done two miles of trails and some rehab along the Green River. Staff applied for grant for$23,000 that will allow the City to continue employing 21 teens. Teen Leadership Camp: Camp is full, parents and teens like it. Special Olympics: It is this weekend. John invited Councilmembers. Canterbury Faire: The Faire is next weekend. John invited Councilmembers. The meeting adjourned at 5:44 p.m. Minutes prepared by Lisa Gaylord Page 4 *PARKS COMMITTEE MINUTE AUGUST 8, 1995 Council Present: Christi Houser, Chair; Paul Mann and Jim Bennett Staff Present: Tom Brubaker, John Hodgson, Charlie Lindsey, Lori Hogan, John Hillman, Helen Wickstrom, Jim McDonald, Tracey Wickersham and Lisa Gaylord they: Grace Hiranaka, Darr Hiraraka, 26118 Woodland Way South, Kent, WA 98031; Greg Oberst, 12206 SE 221 st. Kent. WA 98031; Vicki Heppner, 25442 Lake Wilderness Lane SE, Maple Valley,WA 98038; JoAnn Wesson, 21717 96th Place South, Kent, WA 98031 Chairperson Houser called the meeting to order at 4:37 p.m. Councilmember Bennett had not arrived yet. RESOURCE CENTER RE-WIRE: John Hodgson told Councilmembers that this subject could go to Operations Committee, but their next meeting had been canceled. Councilmember Orr, in concurrence with Jon Johnson, told John to send this item to Parks Committee and they will approve it if the Parks Committee does. The Resource Center has a wiring problem because the system is fairly old and needs to be re- done. They have had computer problems and an electrical outage. The amount requested for repairs in the 1996 CIP budget is $50,000. According to May Miller, the Finance Director, the money is available in this year's budget. Two repairs are needed right away. If not the full amount, at least $35,000 for the electrical re-wire, telephone and data re-wire, which is needed now. These electrical problems have had a significant impact on staff. Charley Lindsey and John Hillman were available for questions. Councilmember Mann had no questions and concurred, Chair Houser seconded. The motion was passed 2-0. MASK THEATRE FACILITY USE: Jim Bennett arrived. John reported that two City Council meetings ago, MASK Theatre gave a presentation of request to consider Kent Commons as their permanent home, scheduling all performances annually, at a reduced Recreation rental rate. Three Parks staff members met with MASK. Representatives of MASK were present. The request is to perform at Kent Commons under the umbrella of the Parks and Recreation Department. MASK regtlires a permanent home for audience appeal, to pursue long term grants, and to secure plays. They currently utilize Kent Commons, Senior Center, and Resource Center. The two latter are not acoustically set up for performances. Most theatre companies request permission to use for plays six months in advance. There is precedent; the Carco Theatre runs through the City of Renton for the Valley Players and Burien Little Theatre runs through the City of Burien at the Highline Performing Arts; they receive favorable rental rates. MASK is asking for 3 weekends in a row, 3 times a year. They also require 1-2 hours a night the week prior. Lori Hogan gave a historical background on the City's relationship with MASK. In the fall of 1992 the Arts Commission and the Parks Department came together and MASK began. There are a variety of ways the department supports MASK. (1) Through a re-grant process of Page 1 Parks Committee Meeting Mites 0 August 8, 1995 the Arts Commission for the past three years they have received an annual grant that has progressively increased. They are the highest award winner of nine. (2) They are currently are at the assessed internal rate which is $16 per hour. (3) Responsibilities that other renters would be expected to perform are waived. (4) They are given the opportunity to have fund raisers at summer concerts and Winterfest at no charge. (5) They have publicity in City brochures, event calendars and newsletters. FINANCIAL IMPACT Performance dates were provided. The 18 performance dates requested by MASK annually nets $1,440, compared to the Commons being rented at 100% capacity which nets $9,000. Lori continued to say that the week prior to MASK's performances technical time to prepare is require;, this is a challenge due to the fact that their performance site is typically held for classes during the week. Weekly Commons staff is asked to provide reduced or free rates. The staff tries to remain impartial in their procedures. Lori suggested the following options: 1. Allow MASK to reserve one series of performance dates at the Commons, Senior Center and Resource Center. Rental would be assessed at the Recreation rate. 2. Allow MASK to reserve one series of performance dates at the Commons and one series of dates at the Senior Center at the Recreation rental rate. MASK would be responsible for finding a third performance site. 3. Approve MASK's proposal to consider the Commons their permanent home, scheduling all performances on an annual basis, at a reduced Recreation rental rate. 4. Require MASK to follow the same rental procedure as all other rental groups. Fees would be assessed according to established fee schedules. In all options, dates would be reserved annually on a space available basis. Parks and Recreation class dates will not be altered to accommodate rehearsal time. John expressed concern about the possibility of other groups requesting the same thing. Chair Houser requested clarification regarding the difference of what MASK pays and the public pays. Lori explained that there are not usually classes on Friday and Saturday night since they are prime rental nights for the public. The usual charge for the time allocations of 10 hours is $500. John explained that the fee that MASK receives is equivalent to what the department assesses itself. In essence MASK is one of the programs. MASK spokesperson Greg Oberst, a trustee with the board, came forward to say only one of the options are viable for them and that is to allow them to have all their shows at the Commons at the recreation rate. The other options would force them to make changes; dissolving or moving. Page 2 i Z -Parks Committee Meeting utes 'August 8, 1995 They must have one location to operate like a professional theatre company. Chair Houser asked if MASK had been working with the Performing Arts Center, adding that Kent doesn't have a theatre. Greg said that was a community problem, Commons is as close as Kent has. They are wanting to salvage the 1995-1996 season. Councilmember Mann asked about the quality of the plays. If we endorse MASK, is there any way we can have a say in the plays that are presented. Greg said they are sensitive to the community. JoAnn Wesson said they do not wish to offend, but attract the community. Initially the group hoped to put on a children's theatre piece, classical piece and comedy. She summarized the plays that they have offered. A problem with children's theatre is you need a matinee. They choose plays depending on acceptability, content, availability and production values. Councilmembers expressed concern about other groups requesting these privileges. John suggested establishing a third rental rate. Chair Houser said under the umbrella everything would have to be okayed through John. John said there would have to be an advisory capacity. Lori shared that the Arts Commission doesn't pre-approve performances, but values their selections. If there is deviation, it is up to the Arts Commission to continue future funding or not. John mentioned again we would have to put some monitoring mechanism in place. Chair Houser inquired about legalities. Tom said there could be a problem with "gift of public funds." The City is prohibited to give money outside the City unless they are needy or poor. The reduced rate is a defacto gift of$34 per hour. There may also need to be control over content, with certain conditions. Bennett said he understands the concern of revenue, but a community theatre affects the quality of life. Maybe we're over charging the other folks. He wants to support the theatre. Let them prove their accountability; it takes certain type of building to accommodate their needs. For continuity, it would be better to be held at one place. Chairperson Mann asked Tom to look into the "gift of public funds" issue. Tom said he could and suggests that Council needs to decide if it wants to sponsor a theatre company, provide a permanent home, and set conditions like a contract. Council would 4e,ting MASK under their wing more. JoAnn stated MASK has been under their umbrella from thibq9inning, and has been blessed with the discount rate. They do not have the technical expe,rtipe t 'riplocate and brought their plight to Council. , Councilmember Bennett asked Tom to write a one year agreement with st tldards and suggested Councilmembers attend some of the plays; Tom consented. Chair Houser suggested MASK increase their revenue to pay the $500. She agrees that we should give them one year. Lori asked if that should be a goal expressed in the contract. John wants to avoid precedence setting. John would like to see added financial accountability, and have a contract by the next meeting. JoAnn is hoping to get Steel Magnolia for the October performance; they want recognizable titles. Chair Houser suggested monetary goals could be increased in increments. JoAnn said they have the lowest ticket price in the area. John says the show will go on, even if MASK only gets close to their goal. Page 3 Parks Committee Meeting Minutes ' August 8, 1995 Tom will put together an agreement to include financial incremental rent for the next year with the ability for the Parks Department to approve and check on "gift of public funds." A meeting with MASK will be scheduled to discuss a contract. Starting with a trial basis for a year avoids precedence setting. Houser says it should have gone to mayor's office. Tom clarified that it is still subject to final approval of Kent City Council. PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES: Glenn Nelson Tennis Court: resurfaced and we already have impact from rollerbladers. Skateboard Committee: The committee continues to meet to prepare to address the Council. John visited a nice Skateboard/Rol lerb lade Park in Moses Lake. Titus Park will be ready to dedicate in a couple of weeks. Midway Reservoir: Still waiting for paperwork on the Midway Reservoir. Helen shared a concern about The City of Seattle not wanting to sell. Miniature Golf Course: It has made as much money as last year already. Golf Landscaping promises to be done so synthetic turf can be put out this weekend. They start paying fines after Friday of$550 per day. Youth/Teen Program: The Lighthouse program is down for three weeks because school is getting ready to begin. Youth Employment Program: The Press will be out with a story tomorrow. Congress is in the process of eliminating the Youth Employment Program; It barely passed this year. John will write a letter to our local representatives for signatures. There are 22 youths making money and fixing our parks. Councilmembers consented to giving their signatures. The youth have done two miles of trails and some rehab along the Green River. Staff applied for grant for$23,000 that will allow the City to continue employing 21 teens. Teen Leadership Camp: Camp is full, parents and teens like it. Special Olympics: It is this weekend. John invited Councilmembers. Canterbury Faire: The Faire is next weekend. John invited Councilmembers. The meeting adjourned at 5:44 p.m. Minutes prepared by Lisa Gaylord Page 4