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16 Staff Report - Hold Music in the Park At Civic Center LawnMEETING DATE: 10/6/03 ITEM NO. COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT DATE: September 25, 2003 TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL FROM: DEBRA J. FIGONE, TOWN MANAGER SUBJECT: APPROVE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ARTS COMMISSION TO HOLD MUSIC IN THE PARK CONCERT SERIES AT CIVIC CENTER LAWN RECOMMENDATION: Approve the recommendation of the Arts Commission to hold the Music in the Park concert series at the Civic Center lawn. BACKGROUND: Music in the Park is a free summer concert series that has been produced by the Town's Arts Commission for close to 15 years. The series of 10 to 12 concerts has become a Town tradition, and each concert is attended by between 800 and 1200 people. Historically, Music in the Park (MIP) was held at Town Plaza, at the corner of Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue. Due to the construction at Town Plaza during the summer of 2002, the concerts were moved temporarily to the Civic Center lawn. The concerts remained in that location for the 2003 concert season, based on the results of a 2002 survey of audience members and major sponsors. At its February 3, 2003 meeting, Council approved the relocation of MIP to the Civic Center lawn. The staff report for that meeting is Exhibit A to Attachment 1. During the Verbal Communications portion of its April 7, 2003 meeting, and after discussion of the issue by three residents, Council asked for a continued review of the program during the 2003 concert season. The minutes of this discussion are Exhibit B to Attachment 1. Finally, at the April 12, 2003 Council/Commission Retreat, Council and Arts Commission members discussed again the significance of moving MIP to the Civic Center, and the possibility of hosting other arts events at Town Plaza. The matrix of issues from this discussion is Exhibit C to Attachment 1. In order to gain maximum public input into the decision -making process, the Arts Commission held a well -advertised public hearing on September 17, 2003. The staff report for this public hearing is Attachment 1. As described in Attachment 1, all Town residents and business owners were invited PREPARED BY: REGINA A. FALKN COMMUNITY SER DIRECTOR N:\CSD\TCRPTS\mip location.wpd Reviewed by: Assistant Town Manager (Town Attorney Clerk 1�G Finance Community Development Revised: 9/25/03 1:10 pm Reformatted: 5/30/02 PAGE 2 MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL SUBJECT: APPROVE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ARTS COMMISSION TO HOLD MUSIC IN THE PARK CONCERT SERIES AT CIVIC CENTER LAWN September 25, 2003 to attend the hearing and present their opinion on the location of MIP. Anyone not able to attend the hearing were invited to provide written comments, which were included in the public hearing staff report (Exhibit D to Attachment 1, and Attachment 2). Approximately 17 people attended the public hearing; 8 spoke in favor of the Civic Center, and 2 spoke in favor of Town Plaza. The draft minutes of the public hearing, including all verbal comments, are Attachment 3. The minutes will be considered for adoption by the Arts Commission at its October 8, 2003 meeting. DISCUSSION: At its September 17, 2003 meeting, the Arts Commission voted unanimously to adopt a recommendation to Council that the Music in the Park concert series remain at the Civic Center. The Commission's recommendation was based on many factors. Attachment 1 (pages 3 and 4) includes a discussion of several of these factors, including the results of the 2003 audience survey, major sponsor survey, and performer survey; written and verbal comments received from members of the community; and the facilities available at each location, including space, parking, and restrooms. The Commission's discussion at the public hearing also focused on the following: a. SAFETY. Town Plaza is bordered on all four sides by public streets; the Civic Center lawn is bordered on only two sides by public streets. For those concertgoers who bring young children, the Civic Center may present lesser traffic -related dangers. b. GROWTH. The Civic Center lawn is 81,284 square feet, and the Town Plaza lawn is 19,800 square feet. Though both locations can accommodate the typical MIP audience of 800 to 1200 people, the concert series continues to grow in popularity, and the Civic Center location can best accommodate additional growth. C. ACOUSTICS. According to the Opera Guild San Jose, a popular MIP performer, the acoustics at the Civic Center are substantially better than those at Town Plaza. d. NOISE. As noted above, Town Plaza is bordered on all four sides by public streets, while the Civic Center is bordered on only two sides by public streets. The Civic Center location receives less street noise interference than does Town Plaza. CONCLUSION: The Arts Commission recommends that Music in the Park remain at the Civic Center. The Commission members are confident that they have followed a comprehensive, inclusive public input process. Based on written and verbal public comments, on several surveys, and on the features of each location under consideration, the Commission recommends to the Council that it approve the Commission's recommendation. PAGE 3 MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL SUBJECT: APPROVE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ARTS COMMISSION TO HOLD MUSIC IN THE PARK CONCERT SERIES AT CIVIC CENTER LAWN September 25, 2003 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT: The recommended action is not a project defined under CEQA, and no further action is required. FISCAL IMPACT: The entire Music in the Park program is paid for through donations from private businesses and individuals. The location will not affect the cost -recovery nature of this program. Attachments: 1. Arts Commission report of September 12, 2003 (with Exhibits A - H) 2. Desk item for September 17, 2003 Arts Commission meeting 3. Minutes of September 17, 2003 Arts Commission meeting Distribution: Arts Commission members RAF:JLM/ CELEBRATING COMMUNITY MEMORANDUM . t�t�a COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT '•aM Q.r., to +ow We' To: From: Subject: Date: Arts Commission Regina A. Fal unity Services Director Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series September 12, 2003 RECOMMENDATION: That the Arts Commission: 1. Open and hold a public hearing; 2. Close the public hearing; 3. Consider alternatives for location of Music in the Park concert series and formulate a recommendation to the Town Council. BACKGROUND: The Commission has been asked to formulate a recommendation to Town Council regarding the location of future Music in the Park concerts. The purpose of this public hearing is to obtain additional public comment regarding the location of Music in the Park. This report transmits written public comment/feedback received through September 10 and provides related information presented for the Commission's consideration. "Music in the Park," formerly "Music in the Plaza," is a free summer concert series that has been produced by the Town's Arts Commission since 1988. The series of 10 to 12 concerts has become a Town tradition, and each concert is attended by between 800 and 1200 people. Historically, Music in the Park (MIP) was held at Town Plaza, at the corner of Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue. Due to the construction at Town Plaza during the summer of 2002, the concerts were moved temporarily to the Civic Center lawn. The concerts remained in that location for the 2003 concert season, based on the results of a 2002 survey of audience members and major sponsors. At its February 3, 2003 meeting, the Town Council approved the relocation of MIP to the Civic Center lawn. The staff report for that meeting is Exhibit A. During the Verbal Communications portion of its April 7, 2003 meeting, and after discussion of the issue by three residents, Council asked for a continued review of the program during the 2003 concert season. The minutes of this discussion are Exhibit B. Finally, at the April 12, 2003 Council/Commission Retreat, Council and Arts Commission members discussed again the significance of moving MIP to the Civic Center, and the possibility of hosting other arts events at Town Plaza. The matrix of issues from this discussion is Exhibit C. Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series September 12, 2003 Page 2 Community Outreach: Methods Used to Solicit Input To address the issues brought forth during the three Town Council meetings described above, staff developed a comment process which provided significant opportunities for public input. Public comments regarding the location of MIP were solicited through the following: ► Advertisements in the August 27 and September 3 editions of the Los Gatos Weekly ► Front page article in the August 21 edition of the Los Gatos Daily News ► Feature on the "What's New" page of the Town website, also emailed to What's New Iistsery subscribers ► Personal invitation to public hearing mailed to Downtown -area merchants ► Announcements at MIP concerts on August 17 and August 24 ► Notices posted throughout Civic Center ► Article in the "Briefs" section of the September 3 edition of the Los Gatos Weekly ► Front page article in the September 10 edition of the Los Gatos Weekly ► Audience surveys distributed at concerts ► Sponsor surveys mailed to all 23 major sponsors ► Performer surveys conducted via telephone A copy of each community outreach piece is included in Exhibit H. In each media piece, residents and merchants were invited to attend this hearing, or to provide written comments to the Commission. All written comments received are attached as Exhibit D. DISCUSSION: The MIP concert series was developed as a cultural event for the residents of Los Gatos. The MIP Guidelines, adopted by the Town Council under Resolution 1997-126, state the following goals for the series: 1. Meet the highest quality artistic standards. 2. Support and promote local talent whenever possible. 3. Allow family and community members to share a common social and cultural experience. 4. Exhibit a variety of styles, forms, and multi -ethnic and cultural origins. 5. Support the arts through the presentation of world music. These goals indicate that MIP's primary purpose is to serve as a cultural and artistic outlet for the community. The management of MIP is the responsibility of the Arts Commission, with Town staff providing support. It was not developed as an economic vitality project. Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series September 12, 2003 Page 3 Staff recommends that the Arts Commission take the following information into account when developing its recommendation to the Town Council regarding the location of MIP: the results of the 2003 MIP Survey, the features of each facility under consideration, and public comments received. 2003 Survey Results and Written Comments Audience surveys were distributed at every concert during the 2003 MIP series; audience members were asked to fill them out and return them at the same concert. The full results of the audience survey are Exhibit E. Surveys were also sent in the mail to all major sponsors and all MIP performers; the full results of these surveys are Exhibits F and G, respectively. AUDIENCE SURVEY: Of the survey respondents, 63% had attended previous concerts at Town Plaza, and 73% had attended previous concerts at the Civic Center. When asked which location was preferred, 64% ofrespondents chose the Civic Center, 8% chose Plaza Park, and 12% indicated that either location was acceptable. The survey reflects the opinion of those who attended concerts at the Civic Center. Those residents who do not like the Civic Center as an MIP location and did not attend concerts there, were not surveyed. However, every effort was made to inform residents of their opportunity to comment on the concert series. The survey was an effective, though not the only, means of soliciting public comments on this issue. MAJOR SPONSOR SURVEY: When asked whether they would continue to sponsor MIP if it were held at either of the two potential locations, 4 of the of the 14 responding major sponsors indicated that they would continue to sponsor only at the Civic Center, and no sponsors would continue to sponsor only at Town Plaza; the majority, 8 out of 14, would continue to sponsor at either location (the remaining sponsors did not indicate a preference). PERFORMER SURVEY: When asked which location most effectively meets the needs of their audiences, 2 of the 7 responding performers chose the Civic Center, and 2 performers chose Town Plaza (the remaining performers did not indicate a preference). All 7 of the responding performers rated the stage setup at the Civic Center as "excellent." MERCHANT LETTER: Letters inviting merchants to attend the public hearing and/or submit written comment were sent to approximately 600 downtown businesses. No written correspondence was received as a result of this letter. Included in Exhibit D are letters previously received from local businesses. COMMUNITY INPUT: Correspondence from community members is also included in Exhibit D. Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series September 12, 2003 Page 4 Facility Features SPACE: Informal counts by staff and commissioners conducted at concerts indicates that between 800 and 1200 people attend each concert. Many concertgoers bring chairs or blankets to sit on, and picnics to enjoy, during the performance. Therefore, a good deal of space is required to comfortably accommodate the audience. The Civic Center lawn is 81,284 square feet; the Town Plaza lawn is 19,800 square feet. It is important to note also that the groves of mature redwood trees in Town Plaza represent substantial visual obstacles, which are not present at the Civic Center. Outdoor event planning guidelines indicate that 7 to 12 square feet are required for every person attending an outdoor concert. According to these guidelines, either park can accomodate the concert goers. The larger park has the advantage of providing more choice in seating locations (e.g. sun/shade, closer to performers or further away). PARKING: Parking is always an issue for events drawing a good number of people. Both locations provide both street and lot parking in relatively close proximity. However, there is more competition for the parking spaces near Town Plaza, as patrons of downtown businesses use the same spaces. RESTROOMS: For many years at the Town Plaza site, no restroom facilities were available. Due -to the pressure on adjacent businesses to provide their restrooms for MIP attendees, portable restrooms were rented for each concert. At the Civic Center site, concertgoers have access to the permanent, public restrooms at the Neighborhood Center. LAWN MAINTENANCE: Both the Town Plaza and Civic Center lawn are open at all times to public use, and are enjoyed every day as comfortable places to play, eat lunch, or relax. This constant use does put some strain on the lawn, which necessitates regular maintenance and occasional replanting. However, the Town Plaza is also used for the weekly Farmers Market and weekly Jazz on the Plazz concerts, representing substantial extra wear and tear on its lawn. The Civic Center lawn is not used for any weekly activities, except the MIP concerts. Alternatives There are at least three alternative locations for the Commission to consider: 1. Town Plaza 2. Civic Center lawn 3. Oak Meadow or other Town parks If the Commission would like to consider holding the concerts at a location other than the two parks in which they have been held, additional research will need to be conducted to determine feasibility and impact. Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series September 12, 2003 Page 5 CONCLUSION: The Commission has been requested to formulate a recommendation to the Town Council regarding the permanent location for the "Music in the Park" summer concert series. Community input has been solicited through a wide spectrum of avenues including letters, surveys, newspaper ads and articles, the Town's website, and postednotices. The Commission should consider the physical features and amenities of the parks and public comments received in developing its recommendation. EXHIBITS: A. Council Agenda Report for February 3, 2003 meeting, "Approve Recommendation of the Arts Commission to Relocate the "Music in the Plaza" Summer Concert Series to the Civic Center Lawn" (with Attachment 1) B. Minutes of April 7, 2003 Town Council meeting C. 2003 Council/Commission Retreat: Summary Matrix, Arts Commission D. Public Comments E. 2003 Audience Survey Summary F. 2003 Major Sponsor Survey Summary G. 2003 Band Survey Summary H. Community Outreach JLM/ N:1CSD18070\ IIP 2003`tnip location hearing ACR.wpd COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT DATE: January 23, 2003 TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL FROM: DEBRA J. FIGONE, TOWN MANAGER SUBJECT: 11'IEETING DATE: 2/3/03 ITEM NO. APPROVE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ARTS COMMISSION TO RELOCATE THE "MUSIC IN THE PLAZA" SUMMER CONCERT SERIES TO THE CIVIC CENTER LAWN RECOMMENDATION: Approve recommendation of the Arts Commission to relocate the "Music in the Plaza" summer concert series to the Civic Center lawn. BACKGROUND: "Music in the Plaza" is a free summer concert series that has been produced by the Town's Arts Commission for close to 15 years. The series of 10 to 12 concerts has become a Town tradition, and each concert is attended by between 800 and 1200 people. Historically, Music in the Plaza has been held at Town Plaza, at the corner of Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue. Due to the construction at Town Plaza during the summer of 2002, the concerts were moved temporarily to the Civic Center lawn. DISCUSSION: Attached is a recommendation, by the Arts Commission that Music in the Plaza be relocated permanently to the Civic Center lawn (Attachment 1). As noted in this recommendation, the.Civic Center site has the following physical advantages over Town Plaza, for the purposes of Music in the Plaza: ► better pedestrian access ► better access to public parking lots and on -street parking ► more lawn area for the increasing numbers of concert goers PREPARED BY: REGINA A. FALKNE COMMUNITY SER DIRECTOR N:\CSD\TCRPTS\movemiptociviccenter. wpd Reviewed by: Assistant Town Manager 41/ Town Attorney Clerk Finance Community Development Revised: 1/23/03 11:45 am Reformatted: 5/30/02 PAGE 2 MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL SUBJECT: APPROVE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ARTS COMMISSION TO RELOCATE THE "MUSIC IN THE PLAZA" SUMMER CONCERT SERIES TO THE CIVIC CENTER LAWN January 23, 2003 ► more shade from the sun ► better line of sight from the audience to the stage area ► better acoustics ► access to public restrooms at the Neighborhood Center The Arts Commission also finds the following considerations to be important in recommending a move to the Civic Center lawn location: ► opportunity to provide an "anchor event" for the east end of Main Street, as the Farmers Market is an anchor event for the west end of Main Street ► opportunity to promote the Civic Center as a welcoming community gathering place ► a majority of 2002 concert attendees surveyed preferred the Civic Center ► a majority of 2002 concert sponsors preferred the Civic Center The Arts Commission appreciates the improvements made to Town Plaza, and believes that it will be an attractive venue for other visual and performing arts events in future. However, the Civic Center lawn is much more appropriate to the needs of Music in the Plaza. Should this change in venue be approved, the Arts Commission will evaluate in future the possibility of renaming, or modifying the name of, "Music in the Plaza," to reflect its new Location. CONCLUSION: Staff recommends that Council approve the recommendation of the Arts Commission to relocate the "Music in the Plaza" summer concert series to the Civic Center lawn. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT: The recommended action is not a project defined under CEQA, and no further action is required. FISCAL IMPACT: The entire Music in the Plaza program, including any associated Parks & Public Works maintenance costs, is paid for through donations from private businesses and individuals. A move to the Civic Center lawn will not affect the cost -recovery nature of the program. Attachments: 1. Letter of December 26, 2002, from Arts Commission Chair Distribution: Arts Commission members RAF:JLtit/jIm Towle OF Los GATOS Los Gatos Arts Commission 208 East Main Street Los Gatos. California 95030 December 26, 2002 RE: "MUSIC IN THE PLAZA" SUMMER CONCERT VENUE REQUEST Madam Mayor & Town Council Members, This letter is a formal request on behalf of the Arts Commission to relocate the "Music in the Plaza" Summer Concert Series to the Civic Center lawn for its future programs. During last summer, the series was held at the Civic Center as a result of improvements being made at the Town Plaza. It became apparent that the Civic Center location has many advantages over the Town Plaza. After the first few concerts, the MIP Committee received numerous unsolicited comments from the audience, entertainers and sponsors to consider the Civic Center as a permanent venue for future concerts. In response, the MIP Committee ran public surveys throughout the rest of the summer. The committee also surveyed the major financial sponsors as to their preference. Both surveys showed overwhelming support for the Civic Center venue. Supporters emphasized that the Civic Center offered easier pedestrian access, abundant parking, more lawn space, better shade from the sun, better viewing of the bandstand, better acoustics, and the availability of public restrooms at the Neighborhood Center was a big plus. Other considerations cited by the MIP Committee favoring the Civic Center were our interests in accommodating the growing audience numbers, and in providing an anchor event at the east end of Main Street, as well as promoting our Town Civic Center as a friendly and welcoming community gathering place. Please understand that our request is in no way meant to signify that the Arts Commission has abandoned the Plaza. The upgraded Plaza, with its new lighting, sound -system and planter box seats is much appreciated and will provide a perfect setting for other visual and performing arts events to be organized by the Arts Commission in the future. In summary, we ask for your permission to relocate the "Music in the Plaza" event for the upcoming 2003 summer series. Whatever your decision, the Arts Commissioners promise to continue to refine and improve the concerts for the benefit of the Los Gatos community. Respectfully, Teri Hope, Chairperson Town of Los Gatos Arts Commission N:\CSD\80701MIPVenue i.wpd p I.L.A1 W 11. D TOWN OF LOS GATOS CALIFORNIA TOWN COUNCIL/PARKING AUTHORITY JOINT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY April 7, 2003/Minutes TOWN COUNCIL The Town Council/Parking Authority/Redevelopment Agency of the Town of Los Gatos met in the Council Chambers of the Town Hall, 110 East Main Street, at 7:01 p.m., Monday, April 7, 2003, in joint regular session. ROLL CALL Present: Steve Glickman, Diane McNutt, Joe Pirzynski, Mike Wasserman and Mayor/Chairman Sandy Decker. Absent: None. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Given by all in attendance. CLOSED SESSION (XX.28) Town Attorney, Orry Korb, reported that Council had met in Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a) regarding Existing Litigation to discuss McMurtry & Bell vs. Town of Los Gatos. Council voted tonight in Closed Session unanimously to settle the litigation. The terms of the settlement are as follows: McMurtry & Bell shall immediately dismiss the subject action with prejudice; each party to bare their own costs; McMurtry & Bell have until May 31, 2003 to file a rezoning application; if not filed by that date any attempt to file an application up untill October 1, 2003 may be summarily denied at an administrative level by the Town; unless rezoned by October 1,2003 McMurtry & Bell shall either vacate 14 E. Main Street or bring that address into conformance with the Town Code; Town shall refrain from any code enforcement activities concerning 14 E. Main Street until October 1, 2003. BUSINESS COMMENDATIONS/LOS GATOS DOG AND CAT HOSPITAL (00.28) Council Member McNutt presented Town Commendation to The Los Gatos Dog and Cat Hospital and spoke of the years that the Hospital has served our community. Dr. Kyle Frandle, representing the Hospital, was present to receive the commendation. He spoke of the years of service the facility has offered the Town, residents, and pets of the community. Mr. Frandle also noted his appreciation for the commendation and offered his continued commitment to our Town. SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS (01.28) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council accept and file informational report regarding currently scheduled public hearings. Carried unanimously. :e:\Documents and Settingslsgutowsk\Desktop M 04-07-03.wpd Town Council Minutes April 7, 200: Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, Calif- TOWN COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING SCHEDULE (02.28) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council amend Town Council/Redevelopment Agency Meeting Schedule adding April 12, 2003 Town Council/Boards/Commissions/Committees Retreat Meeting, changing May 5, 2003 start time to 7:00 p.m., and canceling July Council meetings. COUNCIL CALENDAR OF MEETINGS (03.28) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council accept the April 2003, and May 2003, Town's Calendar of Meetings. Carried unanimously. RATIFICATION OF PAYROLL/MARCH 2003 (04.V) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council ratify the check register for the payroll of March 3, 2003 through March 15, 2003, paid on March 21, 2003, in the amount of $531,520.43. Carried unanimously. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/RATIFICATION/MARCH 2003 (05.V) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council ratify the accompanying check registers for accounts payable invoices paid on March 14, 2003, and March 21, 2003 in the amount of $385,713.89. Carried unanimously. MINUTES OF MARCH 17, 2003 (06A.V) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council approve the Minute - March 17, 2003, Regular Joint Town Council/Redevelopment Agency Meeting as submitt Carried unanimously. LOS GATOS PESCADO/KIOSK SCULPTURE/ PHILIP LANGE/RESOLUTION 2003-30 (08.39) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council adopt Resolution 2003-30 entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO EXECUTE A LOAN RECEIPT WITH PHILIP LANGE FOR THE ARTWORK "LOS GATOS PESCADO" KIOSK_SCULPTURE, Carried unanimously. LANDSCAPING & LIGHTING DISTRICTS 1 & 2/RESOLUTION 2003-31 (09.26) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council adopt Resolution 2003-31 entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS DESCRIBING IMPROVEMENTS AND DIRECTING PREPARATION OF ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2003- 2004 TOWN OF LOS GATOS LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS 1 & 2. Carried unanimously. SILICON VALLEY ANIMAL CONTROL AUTHORITY/RESOLUTION 2003-32 (10.33) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council adopt Resolutions 2003-32 entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS APPROVING A SECOND AMENDMENT OF THE JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT OF THE SILICON VALLEY ANIMAL CONTROL AUTHORITY MODIFYING SECTION 6.1,TO REOUIRE MEMBER AGENCIES TO OBTAIN APPROVAL OF THEIR ALLOCATED PROPORTIONAL SHARE OF THE BUDGET PRIOR TO THE AUTHORITY BOARD'S APPROVAL OF THE FISC YEAR BUDGET. Carried unanimously. lC:\Documents and Settmgs\sgutowsk\DesktopM 04-07-03.wpd 2 Town Council Minutes April 7, 20( Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, Californ LOS GATOS BOULEVARD 15047/ZONE CHANGE/RC TO CH/ORDINANCE 2111 (11.15) Motion by Mr. Glickman, seconded by Mr. Wasserman, that Council adopt Ordinance 2111 entitled, ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS AMENDING THE ZONING MAP FROM 'RC' TO 'CH' FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 15047 LOS GATOS BOULEVARD. Carried unanimously. MAYOR'S STATEMENT (XX.28) Mayor Decker welcomed the Council and audience and explained how she would like the tone of the Town meetings to proceed during the year. She spoke of a community that has been able to display respect for one another, to deliberate the business of the Town in an informed manner, and to accept and act upon the decisions made at public and open meetings. She noted that all of our residents deserve our respect and the respect of each other. She asked for and said she expects that the visitors to these Council Chambers will recognize and uphold these principles of respect and courtesy for one another. The Mayor noted that disruptive behavior would not be tolerated, nor allowed to interfere with these community meetings held in the spirit of cooperative and interactive government. She reaffirmed her desire to encourage respect and dignity within these chambers. VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS (XX.28) Music in the Plaza: John Tice spoke of Music in the Plaza being moved to the Civic Center and asked for a full public hearing to determine where the community would like to experience the concerts. He spoke of a petition showing 1,100 signatures ofpeople interested in having the concert returned to the Plaza, and said he would submit it at a later date. Teri Hope representing the Coffee Roasting Company, spoke of Music in the Plaza concert series being very well received at the Civic Center location. The survey of attendees showed that people preferred to see the series continued at the Civic Center. This year's plans have been made in anticipation of being performed at the Center and the sponsors have already committed to the first five concerts of the season. Elke Groves spoke of the support for the concerts at the Civic Center. She noted that the seniors and families appreciated the new location, speaking of the additional space, parking and rest room facilities that are available at this site. Mayor Decker asked that continued review of the program be done during this season and also noted that it would be difficult to change the venue at this time. Patriot Act Resolution: Mike Gibbs questioned the following words in the Town's recently adopted resolution: "....even if requested to do otherwise... by the federal or state law enforcement agencies...." He asked that the following wording be inserted instead: "...to the legal extent possible...." He also submitted a draft resolution supporting our Commander in Chief and our service men serving overseas. Mayor Decker thanked Mr. Gibbs and said his request would be. taken under consideration. Los Gatos Police Chief: Ray Davis noted that council should not dialog during Verbal Communications. He also mentioned that he had spoken at the Monte Sereno Council Meeting and asked them to give the Los Gatos Police Chief a bonus of $5,000 for a job well done and for taking the brunt of the DeCinzo cartoons. C:'.Documents and Setttngs\sgutowsk\Desktop\M 04-07-03.wpd 3 p ARTS COMMISSION October 2003 to Action/issue a 0 a) 0 .O Exhibit D Public Comments From: "Dan Douglas" <dandoug@skibums.org> To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/9/2003 8:24:39 PM Subject: Input for Music In The Park hearing, Sept 17 I wont be able to attend the hearing, but as a concerned Los Gatos resident, I wanted to use this email means to add my two cents worth to the debate. I've attended Music In The Park events in both proposed venues and I enjoy the ones in the Civic Center Plaza much more. The plaza has more space available and better sight lines. It's very comfortable to bring some chairs down, let the kids spread out, even enjoy a leisurely picnic dinner in the grassy area around the Civic Center Plaza...even when surrounded by hundreds of other music fans. While I'm a big fan of the improvements in Town Plaza Park. As a concert venue, it is sorely lacking. The grassy area is smaller and the same sized audience would be much more crowded. It's also surround on all four sides by streets with traffic that passes much closer to the spectator area, distracting from the performance. I love Town Plaza Park, especially the new fountain, but I think that the Civic Center Plaza is much more well suited to concerts. The major complaints about moving the concerts seem to have come from the business owners close to the Plaza. I think the town needs to decide for whom the concerts are intended. Is it to put more money in the hands of a small number of business owners or is it to provide a fun, community -centric event for all residents? Besides, even if the point is to promote local businesses, which business area of the town needs more promotion? The business environment close to the Civic Center is pretty anemic...it can use all the event generate infusions of cash it can get. Whereas, the environment around the Plaza is already pretty thriving. Sincerely, Dan Douglas 156 Jackson St Los Gatos, CA 95030 408-354-8412 dandoug@skibums.org From: <DCSacks@aol.com> To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/9/2003 3:11:49 PM Subject: Summer music concerts To the Arts Commission and the Town of Los Gatos: I'm not sure who Mr. Tice is talking to besides business owners, but everyone I know is happy with the summer Sunday concerts at the Civic Center. There is so much more room to sit, picnic, move around, dance, etc. Those of us with children particularly appreciate the extra room for the kids to run around (and not be stepping over everyone packed into a small square area). You might suggest to the businesses around the Main Street/North Santa Cruz intersection that they consider special take -away or picnic suppers for concert -goers. These dinners could be available as early as 4:30 on a call -ahead basis. Then these restaurants could make special deals for people dining after the concerts. While 1 sympathize with the businesses, please keep the summer concerts at the Civic Center! (More room is better. If there was more shade and parking at Oak Meadow, I'd try to make a case for moving the concerts there! That would really displease the downtown businesses!) Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Debbie Sacks 18400 Overlook Road #31 From: "Murray, James A" <james.a.murray@intel.com> To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/9/2003 10:34:54 AM Subject: Music In Park Hearing - Preference for Civic Center location for performances We are unable to attend the hearing to which the Weekly Times refers in its September 10th issue, but wish to express our strong preference for the civic center location for the music in park performances. In the civic center location, we have found we are able to find seats, in the shade if it is hot or sun if it is not, and enjoy the performing artists (with many thanks to the sponsors). We observe that families with children can come, go and circulate more freely around the grounds along the walkways. And there is less intrusive noise from nearby traffic, a more open feeling overall. In sum, the access and situation in the civic center location is much more congenial to the performing arts and audience than being wedged into the smaller plaza space downtown. The downtown merchants' interests were catered to when the Sunday farmer's market was moved back to the plaza area. I gather people who shop for food Sunday mornings thru mid -day shop for pizza and hardware and art objects too on their way coming and going. But Sunday afternoons and music events can and should be another story, a story that is not dictated by interests of adjacent stores whose foot traffic has already been boosted by the events held in the plaza earlier on Sundays (and year round). It is a short (and healthy) walk for those attending a concert to circle through town, a walk we make ourselves several times each weekend in search of goodies, books, etc. Within one block a walker can find several types of food, wine, haircuts, etc. And walking one more block, they are at the plaza. Those who prefer cars and congestion with their downtown experience are welcome to drive if they prefer. If downtown merchants want to make the Sunday afternoon music events less enjoyable for the audience by moving them to the plaza too, we will generally stay away from their more congested downtown area, not just during the performances but the whole afternoon and evening. Please do not compromise the quality of the music events and negatively impact performers, audience and sponsors. Surely there are some limits to the commercialization of Los Gatos and its arts. Jim and Frankie Murray 161 Loma Alta Ave Los Gatos CA CC: <frankiemurray@lycos.com> Regina Falkner - Park vs. Plaza From: Stephenie Olson <ostefio@earthlink.net> To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/10/2003 2:44 PM Subject: Park vs. Plaza I would like to have the Music in the Civic Center again on a permanent basis, as there is much more room for attendees to select their preferred seating, line of sight to the bandstand is better with only a couple of trees to dodge, and acoustics are better. I also enjoy the temporary kiosks with information and handouts from merchants. We almost always stay downtown to have dinner afterwards - including Willow Street and University Avenue restaurants, as well as those on West Main street which for many years have been neglected. I believe that having the venue at the Civic Center actually expands the perceived boundaries of "downtown". Sincerely, Stephenie Olson file;!/C:1Documents%20and%20SettingslUser\Local%20SettingslTEMP1GW100002.HTM 9/10/2003 Re: "Music in the Park" Dear Council Member, (Genf +wM..,,.......wfel April 10, 2003 RECEIVFD APR 1 0 2003 MAYOR &TOWN COI L Willow Street would like to take this opportunity to make our position clear. First, we would like to thank Teri Hope and the Art's Commission for their hard work, and for their desire to do a jazz series in the Plaza this summer. We agree with the council decision to hold the music at the civic center this summer. We in no way want to jeopardize the music series this summer by making an ill-conceived decision to move it back to the Plaza Finally the sole issue about moving Music in the Plaza is not about how many hours the Arts Commissioners work, nor about the validity of the survey, or even about whether the series should benefit local businesses, the issue is simply should there have been a public hearing. We think the answer is clearly yes, and that next fall after doing more research on the subject, a public hearing should be held to discuss the permanent location of the music series as recommended by the Arts Commission at the last Monday night's council meeting. • Thank you for your consideration. cc: Teri Hope Sincerely, Ed Rathmnn Managing Partner WILLOW STREET PIZZA BUSINESS OFFICE 20 S. Santa Cruz Ave Suite 105 Los Gatos, CA 95030 Tel: 408. 399. 5501 Fox: 408. 399. 5505 TC-03-51 August 6, 2003 Mayor Sandy Decker Town of Los Gatos 110 E. Main St. Los Gatos, CA 95030 Dear Madam Mayor 21 N. Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95030 tel 408.395.8997 fax 408.399.5564 's le r is a further elaboration regarding concerns voiced in an earlier letter dated about the relocation of the Music in the Park event from the Town Plaza to the Civic Center and the disadvantages this posed for Andale Taqueria. The most noteworthy drawback caused by this change in venue is that it removed the easy access to the restaurant for concertgoers who chose to continue the celebration at Andale's after the MIP performance. Although the walk will be further now, we think it will still be manageable on foot. Other unfavorable consequences were outlined as well but we feel there may have been a misunderstanding as to the intent of these grievances. Andale's has been participating in Music in the Park for many years now, and has always viewed the final Mariachi performance as the perfect culmination to the series' cultural mix. Our restaurant is an established business in downtown Los Gatos, and sponsorship gives us the opportunity to mingle with our customers and the larger public in a positive and community -spirited activity. The exposure allows Andale's to confirm its vitality as a downtown business and local team player. We will continue to support the town in the Music in the Park series regardless of its location within town, and would like to invite you and Town Council members to attend this concert and enjoy our hospitality at the Civic Center. Yours sincerely, flrrco �lerva..�c-Z /'- berek vc. r RECEIVED AUG 1 2 2003 MAYOR & TOWN COUNCIL To: All Members of the Los Gatos Town Council and Arts Commission From: Arturo Hernandez 5/22/03 Andales has been a proud sponsor of Music in the Plaza every year since its rebirth in the mid-90's. Contributing well over 510,000 in that period we are happy to share the rich cultural sounds of our musical heritage. The location of our finale in the Town Plaza was a familiar setting for our Mariachi Tapatio music and traditional Grupo Folklorico. We have become aware that Mayor Sandy Decker believes that Andales, and our Mariachi performers, are happy with the new location at the Civic Center. That is wrong. Our Mariachi band Ieader has told me the physical setting, acoustically and artistically, with its sidewalks and odd room for the folk dancers, is far inferior to the beautifully landscaped and open Town Plaza. We had looked forward to playing across from the fresh, new fountain — which always attracts dozens of playful children. And while our participation in the program was NEVER encouraged for commercial reasons, the value of the Plaza's proximity to our restaurant and businesses of other Major Sponsors should be obvious. We furnished, after all, the resources and other tangibles (such as After Concert Parties) which made the event the overwhelming success it is. As General Manger of Andales, and in harmony with our band leader, I support the efforts of John Tice to return Music in the Plaza TO the Plaza. Our restaurant collected over 300 signatures of customers holding the same view. We and many others trust that you will hear our voices and hold a proper hearing before the Town Council. Sincerely, Arturo Hernandez General Manager Andales 2003 Audience Survey Summary Total Number' of Surveys Collected: 178 On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 as the highest rating, please rate the following: VI Sound Quality: Poor 1 0 2 3 Adequate 3 25 4 69 Excellent 5 70 Parking: 1 7 40 53 64 Accessibility: 0 0 17 52 99 Visibility: 0 5 19 68 82 Comfort: 0 1 19 60 88 Do you feel the concert is an enjoyable musical style? Yes: 170 Do you feel the concert offers a unique musical style? Yes: 157 In the past, have you attended concerts at: Which location do you prefer? Plaza Park: 113 No: 0 No: 6 Civic Center: 130 Plaza Park: 15 Civic Center: 115 Either: 22 How many concerts are you planning on attending this year? (10 are planned) One concert: 2 Four concerts: 7 Seven concerts: 16 Two concerts: 3 Five concerts: 19 Eight concerts: 23 Three concerts: 11 Six concerts: 8 Nine concerts: 9 Are you a Los Gatos resident? Yes: 93 No: 62 Ten concerts: 39 How did you hear about Music in the Park? Newspaper: 41 Word of Mouth: 40 Other: 9 Website: 1 Come Every Year: 22 N\CSD180701M(P•3003\audience survey summary.frm Poster/Program: 19 Drove By: 9 Comments: I love the series in general even enjoy it when music is mediocre. Last year's Reggae was better, more accessible. I like this new location because there is less traffic, particularly motor cycle interference. It is a great mix of styles. What a wonderful community service!! Series is good, but this particular group is just barely adequate. Note the expectation of reggae. Not true reggae. Disappointment. 1 love this event. Very good and enjoyable. Sound quality - we sit out, a ways from the band because our kids need to run a little, we can't hear well back here. Could be geared a little more to 50+. Good Concert. Good times/Great Community. I live in LG! Staging it a the H.S. lawn would be a nice open place to have the event. I prefer this location. You have a wonderful variety each year - Keep up the good work. Thanks! Best thing in Town! Very much appreciated. So far every group has too much bass in the sound system. Great, keep it up. Makes love the Town. Have more, continue it! Great!! Great and thank you for great Sunday afternoons. I'd like to see Celtic Heart band here again. Love it! Enjoyable - keep them coming, but improve the music. A tremendous community function. We love to come to Music in the Park with the whole family. It's a great way to end our weekend. Thanks!! This is a great event. Very family oriented. Keep up the great work. Keep music in Civic Center - much better for viewers 180 degree sight lines. We love it!! Keep up the good work. Great way to make a connection with the community. I love them. Great! Bring back Candela. Keep concerts at Civic Center. Very enjoyable. Overall, excellent series. Less rock, more ethnic music, Irish, Brazilian etc. Variety is nice - salsa - jazz - classical! l love it all! Only one that I have seen - Candela - Loved it ! We love it! Keep the concert at the Civic Center. Add more trees. I like this area. It accommodates a lot more. No hip hop! Very diverse! Great, lots of diverse music. Keep it up! Blusion is a good band, but not sure if it is a fit for this venue. Lots of people left at the break. Blusion is our first this summer. We are sorry we missed the Salsa. Great service to the people. More shade. Have a List of restaurants to hand out. Ones that are open before or after the concerts. Please don't move back to PLAZA. Do not need music in intermission. Love it here - keep it here. More shade! Many one of a kind! It is certainly a wonderful community event. Super! Gives everyone a chance to experience. A large attendance. Diversity of music important whether I enjoy the style or not. Really a plus for Los Gatos!! Joe Sharino would be good, an all time favorite. Diverse, wonderful music, something to appeal to all music lovers. It's invaluable to the cultural climate in Los Gatos. Keep up the good work. Dog friendly a plus. Wine tasting would be fun on occasion. Any possibility of food vendors? Would make getting dinner together a lot easier. Close Main Street during the concert to increase the depth of the audience and decrease traffic noise. Didn't enjoy June 29. Potties available? The Civic Center can accommodate many more people than the Plaza Park. It should remain at the Civic Center. Keep it here please. Wonderful program, thank you. Go to the LGHS lawn. Perhaps turn the stage so it slightly faces the auto dealers - you can be in front of most people. Move it back to the Plaza This is a great idea - a good family event. Local artists, young 18-25 years. They are great. Should have no smoking. f' Less kids and pets. Great! Great! Great! It made my summer. The Civic Center is better because there are bathrooms, larger space, more parking without so many gas fumes. Very well organized, clean, pleasant atmosphere, great music! Have enjoyed all - great talent. It's great to have this. Keep up the good work! Great - Love it at Civic Center Great idea, we've been coming for years. This is the best location - By the Civic Center, Thanks Good management, Teri Hope included. We love Sage! Let's get them back next year. Music wasn't as great this year. The jazz evening (w/female vocalist) was terrible. What happened to Joe Sharino? Thanks for putting on the series! We love it! Will be back every time we can! Sunday concerts are great. Unfortunately the crowd has outgrown the Plaza. At least one classical event would be appropriate for the class of Los Gatos citizens. Food concessions needed. Need a dance area. Great Community Experience. Well done and thanks for all of the hard work behind the scene! Best at the Civic Center. Keep it coming. This was the first concert I attended but found it a great experience and enjoyable. The band (Sage) played a good variety and kept the crowd involved. An enjoyable part of Summer in Los Gatos!! Very good entertainment. Look forward to them each year. Great, always want more. Keep going and doing it. • Thanks for another great season. It should stay at the Civic Center Very enjoyable event. Maybe no rock and roll. Keep it in the Civic Center!! Great way to enjoy the summer. Please continue. I'm a fan. Would like to see some Portuguese music and more Salsa music. Keep up the good work! Excellent series offered for free. The space available at the Civic Center lawn is wonderful! Room to spread out and picnic with family. Sound is better at the Civic Center. Involving both spaces is great. The enormous space at the Civic Center has truly elevated the entire event. My family and I enjoyed relaxing and playing while hearing great music. Please keep it at the Civic Center. Good variety. Very good. Please invite Portuguese singing and folklore dancing. 2003 Major Sponsor Survey Summary 22 Surveys Sent / 14 Responded On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 as the highest rating, please rate the following: CELEBRATING COMMUNITY •SERVICES IAL1J 'O... Q.... to .o.. O.• Poor 1 2 Adequate 3 4 Excellent 5 Effectiveness of Los Gatos -Weekly ads: 1 7 4 Location and distribution of posters: 2 7 5 Quantity of programs received: 1 1 3 6 Audience size: 3 3 8 Accessibility of location: 2 12 Parking: 5 3 5 Use of hospitality tent as a method for reaching the Los Gatos Community: 1 3 10 Would you fund MIP at either location? (circle one) Town Plaza: 0 Civic Center: 4 Either: 8 Comments: Do not change location, our clients love where it is at! Very good program. The Flying Other Brothers were great entertainment. Thank You. Parking is always a challenge anywhere in Los Gatos but its much better at the Civic Center! I would like to sponsor Sage next summer. Blusion band was a disappointment. Count me in for next year! I would like to have more "World Music" represented. A very exciting environment with a considerable amount of praises. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to co-sponsor the event. N:\CSD\8070\MIP 20031Sponsor Information\rns survey summary.fnn Exhibit t1 CELEBRATING COMMUNITY SERVICES 2003 Band Survey Summary 10 Surveys Total / 7 Responded How does Music in the Park compare to similar venues with regards to: Poor 1 2 3 4 5 Stage Setup: 7 Is the stage size and location adequate? Audience Needs: 1 2 4 Do you feel the location is meeting the needs of the audience? Audience Size: 7 Is the audience size comparable to other cities'? Did your band provide additional marketing efforts, e.g. invitations, flyers, website? Website Flyers Other None 6 4 4 Have you played for the Town of Los Gatos prior to 2003? Yes: 3 No: 4 If yes, what location did you perform at? Plaza Park: Civic Center: Both: 3 Which location most effectively meets the needs of the audience? Plaza Park: 2 Civic Center: 2 Both: N:`.CSD180701MIP 2003 Band InfotmationlBand Survey.wpd Exhibit H Community Outreach Your comments on the concert series: :(jeuoiado) awIN O co O O v, = = a-S_, n C-3 O -..0 O O G mcn CD < c Oo c (O.-I. Gg -O I-. ,, co O CD co CCDD CCD O R= •i = C cn b = 0 -. ° cil 'c o CCD CD I I I I 1 0--' 5 . o a cl s, Ln O a w „e^ g D 0 7' , c3 R 0 CD o I I I I Ncn CA ��;��a p7 O a oo y co a) m cr`o I. .G Q- " y ti m fo c- n� o C �;, .'.. O _. �» c c 11 l 1 l crcFi•y. b o `ci • i ca �. L„ w y 3 " 2' ?: ..., co co y, as �C `< as co co — = ' A F i' C J C9 T3 Other comments or suggestions: How did you hear about Music in the Park? a o g c CDCD sy a y O w O c CD G CD •J CD c H CD 0.1 •J c b CD a 0 CD 20 1-1 CD O c cn a 0 CD O co lY .131ua3 D!AD Which location do you prefer: Saws JJa3UO3 JaLULU is soa x Wed ay3 Ui 3!snIA1;OOZ the past, nave you auteiiueu La111l tl tJ itt. TOWN OF Los GATOS Cnnc CENTER 110 E. MAIN STREET P.O. Box 949 Los GATOS, CA 95031 August 21, 2003 RE: MUSIC IN THE PARK PUBLIC HEARING SEPTEMBER 17 Dear Downtown Business Owner: Sponsored by the Los Gatos Arts Commission, Music in the Park is a summer series of free musical concerts held on Sunday afternoons. Music in the Park is an extremely popular event which has enriched the Los Gatos community and added vitality to the downtown area since 1988. Each year, the Arts Commission strives to produce a series of concerts which allow friends and families to enjoy a diverse program of music featuring a variety of styles, forms, and multi -ethnic and cultural origins. This is one of many events that the Town sponsors for the community. Music in the Park was held in Town Plaza for many years, and is currently held on the Civic Center lawn. Before making its recommendation to the Town Council for a permanent home for Music in the Park, the Arts Commission is requesting input from the community. You are invited to a public hearing to discuss your views of both the Civic Center and Town Plaza as Music in the Park locations. The public hearing will be held in the Town Council Chambers, 110 East Main Street, on September 17, 2003 at 4:00 p.m. If you are unable to attend, you may provide written comments by September 8, 2003 to: Community Services Department, Attention: Music in the Park Location, P.O. Box 949, Los Gatos, CA, 95031. The Arts Commission and the Town organization value the contributions of our local merchants to the unique community of Los Gatos. We welcome your participation in the upcoming public hearing. Sincerely, REGINA A. FALKNER COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR RAF:JLM/ N:\CSD180701MIP 2003\biz ltr location.wpd INCORPORATED AUGUST 10, 1887 1 FAX TRANSMITTAL COMM SERCELEORATIN�:VICCS COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT 11146/11 To: FIELD(Company), FIELD(Contact) From: Regina Falkner, Community Services Director Fax Number: 408/395-8640 Subject: 2003 Music in the Park Concert Series Date: August 13, 2003 Fax Number: FIELD(Fax) As the 2003 concert series comes to an end, we would like to acknowledge those that have so generously contributed their time and money to yet another successful year. By doing this, we would like to invite you to receive a special Commendation from Town Council at the September 15 Town Council Meeting. The presentation will begin promptly at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 110 East Main Street in Los Gatos. We would also like to hear from you, our biggest supporters, on how we are doing. Are we meeting our objectives for the Major Sponsors? Please take a moment and tell us how you feel. Your input is extremely valuable to our continued success. On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 as the highest rating, please rate the following: Poor 1 2 Adequate 3 4 Excellent 5 Effectiveness of Los Gatos -Weekly ads: Location and distribution of posters: Quantity of programs received: Audience size: Accessibility of location: Parking: ~ Use of hospitality tent as a method for reaching the Los Gatos Community: Would you fund MIP at either location? Please circle one: Town Plaza Civic Center Either Will you be attending the September 15 Town Council Meeting to receive your Commendation: Comments: Once complete, please fax to (408) 395-8640. NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING The Town of Los Gatos invites you to attend a Public Hearing to discuss the location of Music. in the Park. September 17,, 2003 at 4:00p.m. Town Council Chambers 110 East Main Street i• i� .1 MU$ICIn Thrka pant SUMMER COMM SUM The Town of Los Gatos Arts Commission thanks all those who so generously contributed to the 2003 Music in the Park concert series. The Commission also recognizes the following Major Sponsors for their substantial donations: Akeena Solar Alain Pinel Realtors Andale Taqueria Arta Council Silicon Valley Ashland Oregon's Mountain Meadows Bob Lewis Volkswagen Community Hospital of Los Gatos Courtside Club Crimson Restaurant eBay Foundation Garden Inn Hotel Gil and Sandy Decker -Hotel Los Gatos Los Gatos Auto Dealers Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company Los Gatos Weekly -Times Lucchesi Communications Steamer's Grillhouse Tangles Salon The Rotary Club of Los Gatos Victoria Capital, Inc. Washington Mutual Bank Wells Fargo Whole Foods Market - Los Gatos Yoga Center of Los Gatos NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING The Town of Los Gatos invites you to attend a Public Hearing to discuss the location of Music in the Park. September 17, 2003 at 4:00 p.m. Town Council Chambers 110 East Main Street SEPTEMBER 3. 2003 LOS GATOS WEEKLY -TIMES 11 Tlasic In ThPark The Town of Los Gatos Arts Commission thanks all those who so generously contributed to the 2003 Music in the Park concert series. The Commission also recognizes the following Major Sponsors for their substantial donations: Akeena Solar Alain Pinel Realtors Andale Taqueria Arts Council Silicon Valley Ashland Oregon's Mountain Meadows Bob Lewis Volkswagen Community Hospital of Los Gatos Courtside Club Crimson Restaurant eBay Foundation Garden Inn Hotel Gil and Sandy Decker Hotel Los Gatos Los Gatos Auto Dealers Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company Los Gatos Weekly -Times Lucchesi Communications Steamer's Grillhouse Tangles Salon The Rotary Club of Los Gatos Victoria Capital, Inc. Washington Mutual Bank Wells Fargo Whole Foods Market - Los Gatos Yoga Center of Los Gatos NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING The Town of Los Gatos invites you to attend a Public Hearing to discuss the location of Music in the ?ark. September 17, 2003 at 4:00 p.m. Town Council Chambers 110 East Main Street l6 LOS GATOS WEEKLY -TIMES AUGUST _7, .: Los Gatos Weekly - August 27 and September 3, advertisement ConuniSSion takes suggestions for concertvenue The Los Gatos Arts Commission invites residents to a Sept. 17 public hearing regarding the venue for next year's Music in the Park. The debate over whether to hold the concerts at the town plaza or civic center became a hot topic in the spring, when the town council decided to keep them at the civic center for the second year in a row. The meeting will take place at the council chambers. 110 E. Main St.. starting at 4 pm. Local Cc Police Bus Scl- Set VOLUME 121, NUMBER 36 Los GAros, CALIFORNIA SE; Los Gatos Weekly "Briefs" - September 3, 20C Tjivn council puts WEr VoL 121, No. 37 Wednesday, September 10, 2003 WILL IT BE MUSIC IN THE PARK OR MUSIC IN THE PLAZA? AND THE BEAT GOES ON Arts commission to hold a public hearing on the issue Council will make decision By LINH TAT After being criticized this past spring for what some in town felt was a failure to allow adequate public input, the Los Gatos Arts Commission wants to start discussing nextyear's Music in the Park this fall. The commission has called a public hearing to .consider whether to hold next summer's concert series at the town plaza or civic center. The hearing will start at 4 p.m. Sept. 17 in the council chambers. "We're working very diligently to give as many opportunities as possible for people to give input," said Community Services Director Regina Falkner. For 14 years, Los Gatans gathered at the town plaza for iv1IP, but ongoing ren- ovation of the site in 2002 forced organiz- ers to move the concerts down the street to the civic center. This year, when MIP could have returned to the plaza. the arts commis- sion instead recommended that the con- certs be permanently relocated to the civic center. The town council agreed to this. based on input from concertgoers and dvent sponsors as reflected through surveys and informal discussions. Following that ruling, resident John Tice, and some downtown business owners cir- culated a petition. urging the council Please turn to page 10 MIP hearing Continued from page 1 to reconsider its decision. Willow Street Wood -Fired Pizza co-owner Ed Rath- mann said at the time he felt the issue was "railroaded through" and that the town did not adequately inform the public it would be making a decision. This time, the town has sent letters to busi- nesses in the downtown area, inviting then' to the Sept. 17 hearing and asking for writ- ten comments. MIP organizes continued to survey concertgoers, performers and past sponsors this summer and have gone onstage during the concerts to announce the upcom- ing public hearing, MIP organizers said. "The vast majority of the people who were surveyed said they prefer the civic center," arts commission Chairwoman Teri Hope said about this year's surveys. Hope acknowledged that not every con- certgoer filled out a survey and that the sev- eral hundred total forms the town collect- ed reflect "a sampiing of the people who attended the concerts." About800 to 1,000 people attended each concert. Hope said. "Trying to solicit a person at a concert is very challenging, but we always invite them to [give input]," she said. Despite the town's efforts to give notice of the upcoming public hearing, Tice still has issues with the timing of the meeting. A summary of the survey findings won't be available for public review until Sept. 10 or thereafter —leaving inadequate time for people to analyze the results before the hearing, he said. "It makes it difficult to have a hearing of any value." he said. suggesting that the hearing take place at a later date and that it occur before the town council rather than the arts commission. The council, which has the final say on the location, will consider a recomme tion from the commission. Hope said commissioners are heading into the upcoming hearing open to any sugges- tions. "I don't think the arts commission has a preference one way or another," she said. Earlier this year, the commission had cited reasons for the civic center location, including that the recommended site pro- vides more lawn space, better access to pub- lic restrooms, improved pedestrian access, increased access to public parking, a better view of the stage and better acoustics. "My experience has informed me there is greater support for music continuing is the plaza," Tice said. Anyone who cannot attend the hearing may send comments via email to cornrnu- nuy@town.los-gatos.ca. us or send a letter to the arts commission at P.O. Box 949, Los Gatos 95031. I nc (;atnc WPpkl v SantPmhpr l fl _ 2( •Y GIIMINTIMA t41ANTOM J V MM. SWF Wi rat Next round is set for a musical tug of war the Town Council reconsiders the deci- sion. The summer concert series was held at the Town Plaza on Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue for 14 years, but Merchants and residents who balked when Music in the Plaza was moved to the Los Gatos Civic Center will be get- ting another chance to have their say as S.. MUSICAL. sags S FROM PAGE 1 • Dail, Mires Thurad.y, Au& 21. 2C MUSICAL FROM PA was moved= to the- Civic- Centex: lawn when the plaza- was- renor' voted. The Los Gatos Farmers Market: was also temporarily moved to the Civic- Center.. In February; the council voted'. to permanently move- the- free - concert series to the Civic Center further down on•Main Street, and it war renamed Music in the Park The council had little com- plaint at the time, but many• downtown shop owners were in an outcry two months later once: news of the decision spread: Res► ident John licestarted a petition; and gatheredk1,000 signanares•to. movetheaeries back to'the. plaza.. The, dtiuncil' still chose to leaver the series at the Civic Center. Now the town has decided to give the busiiresses., and nearby residents another; shot witkt ac "public' hearing. Sept 17 before the Arts Commission. which pro- duces the concert series. Anal &obis al After. that. meeting, the can)! minionwilt make a recommen- dation.to the council aboura pe - rnanem home forthe: series. The-. council will -maker the -Brat deci- sion. TowmManager-Debra Figone said the town is now surveying merchants and residents to deter- mine the best location. After peo- ple. spoke up last year, the town decided to give the series another year at the Civic Center and then evaluate its successes and impacts in either location. Figone said -The surveys were carefully developed," Figone told the Daily News. Last yean the council granted a request from farmer's market operators to move the market back twits original home at the plaza. In February the Arts Commis- sion recommended to perrna- neatly relocate the concerts to the Civic Center because of its better parking, pedestrian access and larger lawn for a growing group of concert attendees. The commission also told the council the Civic Center offers more shade from the sweltering summer sun, better acoustics and access to public restrooms as the nearby Neighborhood Center The commission, which sur- veyed attendees about their pref- erence, said the permanent move would "promote the Civic Center as a welcoming community gath- ering place." But after the decision. many merchants implored the cc to revisit the issue. sayi would hurt their busine move the popular concert. Nearly 1,000 people :ur for each of the dozen or sc carts, which run from late into September. The public meeting wr held Sept 17 at 4 p.m. in cc chambea at the Civic C 110 E. Main St. Anyone who can't are aaked to send their thong the Community Services D ment, Attention: Music i Park Location. PO Box 94.0 Gatos 95031. TOURS FROM PI Los Gatos Daily News - August 2 r-kaitCI1111C111 C ELEORATTNG COMMUNITY MEMORANDUM . COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT ',Ming CPrm+w.�k• To: Arts Commission From: Regina A. Falkner, Community Services Director Subject: Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series Date: September 17, 2003 Attached are additional comments received after the September 12, 2003 Community Services Department Memorandum was completed. N:`,CSD\8070\MIP 30031Public Heating Desk Item.wpd From: "Gene Martin" <trains4@attglobal.net> To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/15/2003 10:11:12 PM Subject: Music In The Park I would like to state that I believe the civic center is a much better venue for the MIP series than the town plaza by the Post Office. I urge the council to keep the MIP at the civic center. I have attended most concerts in past years and the civic center has much more room for people to sit and enjoy the concert. In addition, the plaza always seems to have motorcyclists coming off hwy 17 circling it and disrupting the concerts. Also, I thought that we had a pole/vote last year that established the civic center was the preferred location. Are we starting to do like the rest of California, if you don't agree with the will of the people, have a recall? Gene Martin 254 Vista Del Monte Los Gatos, CA 95030 rayC From: "Marie Tallman" <gm@tollhousehotel.com> To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/15/2003 11:14:09 AM Subject: MIP Dear Commissioners: During the September 22, 2002 Town Plaza Celebration, I was talking to several town officials about how wonderful it will be to have the MIP back "home" in the Plaza. It appeared, at that time, that it was the Town's plan to return the MIP to the plaza. I must admit that I was disappointed when MIP was continued at the Civic Center. However, now that "Jazz in the Plazz" was so successful and that it may be an annual event, I really do not feel as strongly about the location of MIP. I am very confident that you will make a decision that takes the communities best interest at heart. 1 am sorry that I will not be able to attend the hearing, but did want you to know my position on the issue of MIP at the the Civic Center VS the Plaza. Cordially, Marie Marie Tallman General Manager Toll House Hotel/Opera House Banquets 408/395-7070 408/395-3730 Fax www,tollhousehotel.com www.operahousebanquets.com gm@tollhousehotel.com From: mbrence@attbi.com To: <community@town.los-gatos.ca.us> Date: 9/15/2003 8:40:47 PM Subject: Music in the Park Dear Members of the Arts Commission, First, my sympathies at having to address the issue of Music in the Park yet again. It's a pity that, despite all your efforts to gather public input and be fair, you have been accused of having "railroaded through" a decision about the event. I wish I could come to the meeting tomorrow, but since I'm recovering from knee surgery this letter will have to suffice. My vote is for continuing to hold MIP at the Civic Center. I have attended concerts in both the Town Plaza and the Civic Center and much prefer the latter location for many reasons. 1. The sound is better on the Civic Center lawn. There is too much competing noise from heavy traffic on two sides of the Town Plaza (including loud motorcycles at EVERY Sunday -afternoon concert I've attended there). 2. It's easier to see the stage at the Civic Center. 3. There is far more lawn -- and a sense of spaciousness — at the Civic Center. It's a lot easier to walk around and find a place to sit there. Since the Town Plaza was landscaped with all those flower beds, there are a lot of areas not suitable for seating and it seems cramped. Simply put, MIP has outgrown the Plaza venue. 4. There are nearby public restrooms. (Which I much prefer since I hate that feeling of having to buy something when I use the restroom at a business.) 5. Parking (for us anyway) has proven to be much easier at the Civic Center, And it is much nearer our house so we could even walk there fairly easily. • 6. It seems to me that there's more shade at the Civic Center. 7. The paved walkways at the Civic Center provide better surfaces for dancing. In short, I — and all the people I know who regularly attend MIP — find the Civic Center a much nicer venue and would prefer to see the concerts stay there. In deciding this issue, I hope you listen to the concertgoers who attend MIP -- the people it's supposed to benefit -- rather than business owners who seeem to think they're entitled to benefit from it. Sincerely, Mary Martin 254 Vista del Monte Los Gatos TOWN OF LOS GATOS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SPEAKING FOr? CL'.Si.N,-S' T I .� TOTHE T �� ^� f f (• • i ]f L S N I N ,_i ! H ._. ._ J!'v k _'!L L r i 1 Y September 15, 2003 To the Town Council: The Chamber encourages the Town Council to consider the positive impacts on nearby businesses when evaluating the alternate locations for Music in the Park. Especially since downtown businesses have been struggling in the economic downturn, supporting those businesses with events in Town Plaza should be a major factor in the Council's decision. From what we have heard, downtown businesses offering food and drink indicate a decrease in Sunday business since Music in the Park was moved to Civic Center. From a business perspective, the Town Plaza is a preferred location because it is closer to more restaurants than the Civic Center. In either location, the Town should provide public restrooms for the concerts to mitigate the impacts on businesses in the immediate vicinity. Respectfully submitted, Phil Johnson; -President Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce 71,1 4;4,. Jim Derryberry, ce President, Legislative Affairs Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce 408-354-9300 • Fax 399-1594 • chamber©losgatosweb.com • www.losgatosweb.com Information & Executive Office: 349 North Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos, Ca. 95030 CO U n� c� cn C.,c a) y ,a cil -O c, Y Y 400 C . 7:" cu v) a a; CC y i • E a, Cc.,),... O • i"• C c, c)u O G, P •�:.cu O a — - V) ,C -� +-� 4� aA ca El • MO L ) .C/1. Q) C) ^O _ C �V% U T tu .ct re,C� 3 C © O CZ 0 o - c) U cC m cz L..� > O ,� a1.) ci7 U •^ c�7 W CO •...I 0 a) U a) a 0 0 O U 0 U W 0 C • a 0 O A� 0 cn cc U 3 O ct CT to C C 0 vs a Are you a Los Gatos resident? If No, where do you live? a) O z C`• a) a) Other comments or suggestions: O z Name (optional): 'N N Attachment 3 TowN OF Los GATOS 1. ROLL CALL Members Present: Members Absent: Also Present: ARTS COMMISSION 4:00 P.M. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2003 Town Council Chambers (Downstairs) 110 East Main Street Los Gatos, California MINUTES CIVIC CENTER 110 E. MAIN STREET P.O. Box 949 Los GATOS, CA 95031 CELEBRATING COMMUNITY SERVICES ■ Chair Hope, Vice -Chair Johnson, Commissioners Hamilton, Hopkins, Groves, Maclean, and Tjader Commissioners Huber and Kaschub Members of the Public, Regina Falkner, Community Services Director and Angie Gay, Administrative Secretary 2. COMMUNICATIONS 2.1 Verbal (Three minute time limit per speaker for subjects not agendized) No report. 2.2 Written No report. 3. MUSIC IN THE PARK 3.1 Public Hearing Regarding Location of "Music in the Park" Concert Series Chair Hope opened the public hearing. Ms. Falkner gave a summary of the Community Services Memorandum and noted that the purpose of the public hearing was for the Arts Commission to review provided information and obtain further community input in order to develop a recommendation to Council on the location of Music in the Park. The subject is tentatively scheduled for Council consideration at its October 6, 2003 meeting. The following members of the public spoke to the Commission: Mr. Michael Jacobi, of Willow Street Pizza: Thanked the Commission and said they would support the Arts Commission's recommendation. N:\CSD1Minutes\ART\art09I 73 public hearing.wpd Page I Da FT MINUTES Town of Los Gatos Arts Commission September 17, 2003 Ms. Sallie Robbins-Druian of The French Cellar: The Plaza cannot support the number of attendees at Music in the Park. She stressed the need to promote the downtown as a whole, that the Plaza is one of many viable venues and that we need to broaden the downtown by promoting the Civic Center. Mr. Larry Arzie, Los Gatos Resident: The Civic Center has less traffic, more space, similar ambiance of the Plaza with more lawn. He stated that the General Plan, states that the central business district be calmed down. The Civic Center enhances the event. Ms. Barbara Christmann, Los Gatos Resident, Composer and Conductor: Thanked the Commission and said that she was baffled at the question at hand. She asked if the goal of the Arts Commission is to provide artistic music to a growing audience, why was a smaller venue being considered. Mr. Argo Gherardi, Resident and President of the San Jose Opera Guild: The San Jose Opera Guild is unanimously in favor of the Civic Center because of less street noise, better acoustics, the lawn area is more accommodating and the parking is better. Ms. Shirley Henderson, Resident: Agreed to everything said thus far and would not be in favor of moving the concert series to Oak Meadow Park. Ms. Marilyn Gordon, Resident: Thanked the Arts Commission. She is appreciative of the amount of space for children to play at the Civic Center. The businesses on Main Street need to be helped as well. She suggested sponsors do what Andale's does by inviting the public back to their restaurants for continued music. Ms. Margaret Smith, Domus: Her concern is for the smaller businesses and wished the Commission would have done a better job of communicating and including businesses in their decision. Ms. Carla Dougher, Resident: As a resident, she enjoys the Civic Center better with her family. There is more room for her son to safely run around. The Plaza felt tight and crowded. She prefers the Civic Center. Mr. John Tice, Resident: Commended the Arts Commission for bringing some music back to the Plaza. He noted that dozens of people were not able to attend the public hearing because of the time. He suggested that half the concerts be held at each location with the larger ones at the Civic Center. Mr. Tice questioned the surveys validity. Chair Hope asked Mr. Tice some questions concerning his petition and if he had anything to submit to the Commission. Mr. Tice did not. Chair Hope highlighted the economic perspective of Music in the Park. She noted that the last two years that MIP was held at the Plaza (2000 and 2001), the concert series ran at a deficit. Where as it ran in the black at the Civic Center (2002 and 2003). The Commission lost a few sponsors by moving to the Civic Center, but they gained several new sponsors. N:\CSD\Minutes',ART\art09173 public heanng.wpd Page 2 MINUTES Chair Hope closed the public hearing. Town of Los Gatos Arts Commission September 17, 2003 After a brief discussion, it was M/S/C (Groves/Maclean) that the concert series remain at the Civic Center. The vote was unanimous. 4. ADJOURNMENT At 5:10 p.m. it was M/S/C (Hamilton/Tjader) that the meeting be adjourned to the next regularly scheduled meeting. N:\CSD\Minutes\ART\art09173 public hearing.wpd Page 3