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Paul Sanfilipo, Chairman of the Redwood City Planning Commission spoke in opposition to the proposal, suggesting the $750 cost was too high and encouraging the use of Sequoia High School would be more beneficial to Redwood City residents and might bring back the Sequoia Music Department; the long term costs would be excessive; and the Peninsula Center Stage's denial of his request to use the Theatre on three separate occasions. Council Members described the funding of this proposal from Redevelopment Agency bond sales, and not from the Capital Improvement Projects budget. Nita Spangler, 970 Edgewood Road, Redwood City, spoke in favor of the proposal and reminded everyone that the City had subsidized the 4gers. Susan Swope, member of the Parks and Recreation Commission expressed reservations about the proposal as the 39 nights of Peninsula Center Stage productions last year had little impact on downtown business; the City needed assurances that local groups would have access to the Theatre; and a representative from the City should sit on the Board of Directors of Peninsula Center Stage to monitor expenditure of City money. Larry Roland, former sound man for the Palo Alto Players, speaking as a subcontractor and volunteer, expressed his frustrations with Peninsula Center Stage's reluctance to allow a wider range of activities at the Fox. Marilee Gardener, member of the Board of Palo Alto Players, spoke in favor of the proposal promising good theatre, and expressed concern that people speaking in opposition do not understand the theatre. Council Members discussed activities and access to the Theatre with more I productions at more reasonable costs; suggestion that a Facilities Manager -- be hired; and need for full utilization of building. Peter Bliznick, Director of Peninsula Center Stage, reminded everyone that the Fox Theatre is not a municipal auditorium, and is extremely costly to operate; acknowledged access problems, and described rental revenues. Council Members discussed the Fox Theatre as a private entity and the understanding that Peninsula Center Stage has first claim on the facility and the importance of the fourth recommendation having to do with the agreement. Councilman Greenalch advised that this issue generated response from Redwood City residents with only one person speaking against the proposal; very few cities have live theatre productions and a historic theatre in which to stage them; and he would be embarrassed as a Councilman and a resident to turn down quality theatre for an investment of $30,000 that would keep the Fox Theatre as the cultural center of Redwood City. Loretta Thomas, Broadway merchant, who sold tickets in her store for the Fox Theatre productions, advised that her business and other restaurants business had increased on performance nights. Beth Ann Fischer, Redwood City businesswoman, actress, Peninsula Center Stage volunteer and board member, advised the company is community based and MINUTE BOOK NO. 51 Adjourned Regular Meeting Minutes r P N 012 March 2, 1992 age o. Page 7