02/27/1984 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e Mayor Keller returned to the meeting at this time. Mr. Gleason stated that the classification nomenclature is not a problem. He added that the City has a highly accurate accrual system such as would be required by a performing arts center. Mr. Fox asked what attention was given to developing a different form of management other than the City department scheme. Mr. Baer responded that much attention was given to this issue, stating that the Oakland facility operates as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with no other relationship to the city and that the Peoria center is handled through an outside contract. He stated that part of the question with regard to salary levels comes in relationship to those categories with the City. In response to a question, Mr. Fredrickson stated that conversion to a 501(c)3 system would be inappropriate at this time but could be studied on a long-term basis. In response to Mr. Fox's comment, Ms. Wooten stated that it was not the charge of the consultants to study the 501(c)3 recommendation. In regard to the organizational structure with the Business Manager position, Ms. Wooten asked the appropriateness of changing the recording system. Mr. Fredrickson stated that the Business Manager has been involved with installing the City's new accounting system in the center. Once completed, the accounting functions could be handled by the Accountant, allowing the Business Manager to assume the line reporting responsibilities. Ms. Wooten commented that it appears that the level of expertise required by the Business Manager position would change. Mr. Fredrickson agreed that the person in the position should be competent to fulfill the functions as described in the job description. In response to a question, Mr. Fredrickson stated that the Executive Director would assume the responsibility for the research and development functions of the Marketing Program. He stated that one recommendation of the report is to have a clear set of targets for the Executive Director. He said the research element would be ongoing and would include the Box Office personnel and the Community Relations Director. It would be coordinated by the Executive Director, who would plan how the marketing is to be performed. Mr. Baer stressed that it would be a team effort with input from the various sections. Ms. Nichols stated that all performing arts centers apparently go through some change and that different approaches are used. In response to a question, Mr. Baer stated that a consultant was used in studying the Box Office operations. In regard to the need for technical backup at the center, Mr. Baer stated that the Technical Director will have an assistant and will decide what is necessary for the section to provide coverage during the operating hours of the faCility. He said a similar organization should be developed for the Maintenance Engineer and the respective staff. Mr. Gregor commented that he felt the consultants have performed their charge well and that their sugggestions should be considered. In response to a comment, Mr. Baer explained that it is necessary to have a range of ticket prices to address all portions of the public. He added that a "student rush" program would place on sale at half-price all remaining tickets a short time prior to the performance. He said the center must play the game of MINUTES--Eugene City CounCil/Performing Arts Commission Feb. 27, 1984 Page 8