11/10/1980 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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I' . forecast what would happen if volunteers were used rather than all paid per- sonnel. These volunteers would be a way that local non-commercial users could save on the cost of reimbursables although it would not reduce the rental rates. They have made a forecast maximizing these opportunities. Although it would require using a limited number of regular staff with the volunteers, net savings could amount to $363.40 in the large hall and $130.84 in the small hall. These are raw figures which do not include any payroll assessments. These figures were based on those from Portland. Mr. Reynolds stated that the budget was developed over two years prior to the opening date and reflects a best guess of expected income and usage. It is projected that the large hall will be in use 190 days and the small hall will be in use 200 days the first full year of ' operation. 1982 dollars are reflected. They may change due to inflation or a change in room tax revenues. The budget was developed to estimate the Eugene Arts Foundation subsidy and it, was estimated for fi ve years. It is important to establish user rates as soon as possible so that local groups can plan ahead. It is also necessary to let people outside the area know what the rates will be. Mr. Delay asked how the commercial rates were established and if they are higher than for comparable facilities. Mr. Reynolds stated that they had surveyed other facilities and there is a strong trend to use a percentage against a minimum. The figures presented keep pace with rates anticipated in Portland, Seattle, Sacramento, Spokane, and San Diego. Mr. Delay asked if these figures are about the same as those used for comparison. Mr. Reynolds stated . that they are, but these figures are three months old. Mr. Delay expressed concern that the projected room tax figures do not include those to be used for debt retirement of the parking structure. Mr. Henry stated that in regard to the parking structure, they had used only 25 percent of the projected Hilton Hotel's room tax, not all of the room tax. These projections are conservative and do not reflect the Hilton room tax. Public hearing was opened. James Aday, 3900 Langton, stated that he is a member of the Performing Arts Commission and is a performing artist who expects to use the facility. His primary sympathy lies with the performing artists. The process of determining fees has not been easy and some discussions have been difficult. The rate structure is fair and is needed to ensure that the Performing Arts Center and local arts groups survive. They are trying to make certain that there is room for the director of the center to negotiate the best program at the best terms. The groups should have strong audiences and a strong facility. If the rates are cut back as a policy rather than a negotiable item, it will cause long-term problems. He supports the staff recommendation, realizing allowances must be made for possibilities of negotiation and marketing. However, some local artists feel cutbacks must be made. He hopes that the council will recognize that the commission established the rate structure to allow all to work together. . MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 10, 1980 Page 3