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REPORT <br />To the Honorable Mayor and City Council <br />From the City Manager <br /> <br />September 25, 2017 <br /> <br />SUBJECT <br />Live Performance Agreement between the City of Redwood City and Zoppe Circus <br /> <br /> <br />RECOMMENDATION <br />By motion, approve and authorize the City Manager to execute the Live Performance <br />Agreement between the City of Redwood City and Zoppe Family, Inc. and Kerby Lovallo <br />for circus performances in an amount not to exceed $125,183 and find that the <br />proposed activity is exempt under California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines <br />Sections 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land) and 15311 (Accessory Structures) <br /> <br />BACKGROUND <br />Since 2008, the City of Redwood City has presented Zoppe Circus. The addition of a <br />family-friendly program at the end of October helped to extend the season of events, <br />and provided an incredible draw to Redwood City. Parks, Recreation and Community <br />Services (PRCS) staff worked with a consultant (Labadie Productions) to host and <br />coordinate the operations for Zoppe Circus. The inaugural year of the Circus realized a <br />net loss of $35,927 for one week of performances. However, we received rave reviews, <br />sold over 3,000 tickets and knew that with some modifications, we could eventually turn <br />a profit. In 2010, with two weeks of performances and almost 7,000 tickets sold, PRCS <br />staff was able to assume management of the Circus and cover the entire costs of the <br />Circus. In 2011, 2012 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 the event produced a profit. In 2013 <br />the Circus was relocated to Red Morton Park and was extended to three weekends <br />after maxing out ticket sales for two weekends of shows. Reviews from attendees and <br />neighbors were positive with the new location being loved by all for its walkability. <br /> <br />ANALYSIS <br />Staff recommend continuing the Circus this year and entering into a Live Performance <br />Agreement between the City and Zoppe for up to $125,183. The Circus would be held <br />for three weekends. Lower rates for midweek performances and higher rates for <br />weekend performances, which are traditionally sold to capacity, provide both community <br />access and maximum revenue. Staff has analyzed the PRCS-proposed sporting events <br />during this time period and finds no conflicts. Profit from ticket sales for events like this <br />helps cover the cost of producing downtown events, a key aspect of our Downtown <br />Events Sustainability Plan. <br />6.1.D. - Page 1