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City Manager Everett described the need for the Civic Cultural Commission to hold its three events at the Fox Theatre as the proposed $15,000 is part of the Redevelopment Agency Bond issue proceeds specifically set aside for promotion of the Fox Theatre. Council Members described the major complaint they have heard from the residents and businesses in Redwood City as the denial of access to the Theatre by Peninsula Center Stage to outside groups. Councilman Claire suggested the $30,000 grant be restricted to covering the cost of maintenance or insurance on the Theatre rather than productions, which would ensure the money is spent in Redwood City. In answer to Council questions, Downtown Association Director Britschgi advised he had received a bid of-S4,500 to renovate the marquee, with one-half to come from PCS and the other to come from donations and fund raisers. Councilman Claire reminded representatives from the Peninsula Center Stage that the Council had asked for a breakdown of costs for productions, maintenance, etc. for the Fox Theatre and had not received these figures. Councilman Claire advised that residents and businesses who had contacted him complained that the rental fees were outrageous and meant to discourage them from using the Fox. Councilman Claire advised that representatives from Peninsula Center Stage had admitted at the Public Hearing they were not property Managers, and Councilman Claire suggested that perhaps the best use for the $30,000 would be to use it for property management. MEMO 3/17/92 In response to questions from Council, Ken Spicer, Peninsula Center Stage, stated the fees for other groups use of the Fox varied greatly. Council Members discussed the importance of Recommendation No.4 and the problem of access to the Theatre for non-profit and other groups, and whether it should be a separate issue or linked to performances. It was acknowledged that Peninsula Center Stage lost $40,000 last year on Redwood City productions, and Council Members discussed the desire to underwrite expenses at the Fox Theatre, by restricted or unrestricted funding to ensure quality cultural events in downtown Redwood City. Council Members expressed their frustration that non-profit groups have been excluded from using the Fox Theatre, and stated access by these groups was of prime importance. In response to Council questions, City Manager Everett advised availability would be addressed in the proposed agreement and explained to the audience that the Fox Theatre was not a municipal theatre. Cora-Lea Morrissey, 3550 Farm Hill Blvd, Vice President of the San Mateo Genealogical Society, spoke in favor of the grant. Regular Meeting Agenda March 16, 1992 MINUTE BOOK NO. 51 Page 5 Page No. 24