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e representatives of all the local users of the Hult Center meet once a year to schedule events. All the representatives participate in the scheduling although some established events, such as the Bach Festival, get a priority. There have been no problems. Mr. Rutan said the resolution includes several categories. He suggested it be separated into three sections. The first section could be titled "Residency Requirements," the second section could be titled "Benefits Accrued, II and the third section could be titled "Procedures." Ms. Wooten said some local arts groups cannot afford to perform in the Hult Center. She wondered if a rate reduction or a financial incentive could accompany the residency status. Answering her questions, Mr. Smith said all the local non-profit organizations receive a rate which is 60 percent of the commercial charge. He said five or six organizations may qualify for residency status. Mr. Rutan said SHO and Front Row Magazine contribute to the success of the Hult Center but they are not performing groups. He wondered if they could receive residency status. Mr. Smith responded that residency status in a performing arts center is usually reserved for performing arts groups. He said SHO is a very important volunteer organization. Referring to Section 1.6 of the Residency Requirements, Ms. Bascom wondered if the Performi ng Arts Commi ssi on struggl ed with the wordi ng, "Provi de some programs. . . which are low or no cost to the public.. II - Mike Fox, President of the Performing Arts Commission, said comments at the commission's public hearing indicated that sometimes some remuneration must be received. He said the groups want to provide free and low-cost events. Mr. Fox said representatives of the major arts groups gave most of the testimony to the Performing Arts Commission and they indicated they are satisfied with the rental charges. He pointed out that the groups have given up funds from the City's room tax. He said the commission and the groups would like the City to provide additional benefits to arts groups when the economy is better. He said conferri ng the residency status is one of the most significant things the City can do for the performing arts groups because residency status indicates that the groups are important to the success of the City and the Hult Center. Replying to questions from Ms. Ehrman and Mayor Obie, Mr. Fox said conferring residency status is common in cities that have performing arts centers. He said the performing arts commissioners did not oppose the role of the council in conferring the residency status. The commissioners did discuss, however, Section 1.1 which indicates that resident companies must demonstrate recognized artistic excellence. He said there was some concern about who would make the decision. However, it was resolved satisfactorily. Ms. Bascom expressed appreci at i on to Mr. Fox and the Performi ng Arts Commission for their excellent work. She suggested a letter of appreciation be sent to them. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council January 12, 1987 Page 6