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e audience development. He stated that having a range of ticket prices and the IIstudent rush" program are both strong statements to the community which the center is serving. Mr. Gregor commnented that the "student rush" program could be promoted within a day or so of national events. Mr. Fentress complimented the consultants on their report, stating that the report pointed out the cultural importance of the center and its attraction to those outside the Eugene area. In addition, the report addressed the unique demographic character of Eugene, having a facility sized for a large city, and the need to maintain the center's national reputation. Mr. Fentress stated that Eugene is unique and has abnormal problems; therefore, an unusual effort must be made to continue attracting national and international events. He asked what consideration was given to Eugene's unique situation. Mr. Baer responded that it was greatly considered, stating that the study focused on the demographics, economics, management structure, and length of operation of the Hult Center. While it is important to recognize the center's uniqueness, he stressed that it must not be allowed to become a negative factor. He said the Hult Center has now filled the gap between San Francisco and Seattle. Mr. Fredrickson stated that the study considered all the facts relating to the center and its operation. Again responding to Mr. Fentress' question, Mr. Baer stated that Eugene has a strong local arts base to which the national and international programs add flavor and prestige. He said a strong local audience base must be developed, stating that a national image only adds another dimension to the center's image. e Mr. Hansen stated he was pleased with the charge of the study and the recom- mendations presented. He stated that a potential $600,000 shortfall would be a victory for the community. He said the management study presents strong choices in addressing that shortfall, adding that the City must take a positive approach in the future development of the center. In regard to the function of booking for the center, Mr. Holmer questioned whether a task force should be created before any action is taken on that issue. Mr. Gleason stated that who performs the function and how it is organized are functions of management. He said the number of bookings and the programmatical impact would fall to the Performing Arts Commission. Mr. Gleason stressed that the promoters are selling the product. Any request for a bigger marketing budget would be a budgetary issue, while a larger emphasis in this area would be a progam decision. He stressed that the charge to the task force would be the immediate cash-flow issue and the resolution of the $200,000 shortfall to reach the goal of a $600,000 deficit. Mr. Fox temporarily left the meeting at this time. Ms. Weston stated she was pleased that the City felt the money was well spent for the report. She felt the report was useful in highlighting the work of the PAC and forcing the City and the PAC to address the financial issues. She underscored that most of the report was good news about the center and its staff. Mr. Gregor echoed Ms. Weston's comments, stating that he agreed that e MINUTES--Eugene City Council/Performing Arts Commission Feb. 27, 1984 Page 9