Item 2A: Approval of City Council Minutes

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Mr. Masback noted the competitive nature of the bid process, emphasizing that the choice of Eugene was not a “slam dunk.” Eugene had been selected because its presentation highlighted that the event would be a cultural and community event and the objectives outlined were in line with the objectives of his organization, which was involved in the anti-obesity movement. USA Track and Field operated a program called “Be a Champion,” through which it sent athletes to schools across the country to discuss the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Mr. Masback said that Ms. Jones’ presentation stimulated some thinking on the part of USA Track and Field to use the leadership that Eugene showed in environmental issues and highlight that throughout the trials, much as had been done in Helsinki, Finland, when that city hosted the World Track and Field Championships and highlighted its green initiative. Mr. Masback said the trials were now far larger and more complex than when he participated in them 26 years ago in Eugene, as demonstrated by increased media attendance and increased viewers around the world. He believed that Eugene was capable of putting on the event correctly and said it had significant upside potential. There would be eight nights of live competition shown on national television and around the world, and viewers would see images of Eugene, Lane County, and Oregon. Along with great athletes, viewers would see a beautiful venue. Community and arts events would be highlighted, as well as the welcoming of families coming to Eugene to view their family members competing. Mr. Masback said the stakes for Eugene and USA Track and Field were high because the 2008 Olympic Games were being held in China, and that fact would draw additional international attention to the trials. Track and field would be at the center of attention, and the team that dominated events in Beijing would be the team selected in Eugene. Mr. Masback thanked the council for its support of the event and for future such events. Mr. Irwin anticipated 17,000 spectators would view the trials daily, bringing in many people from outside of Eugene and Springfield. He said 30,000 room nights would be needed, and the trials could generate more than $300,000 in room tax revenues, with a direct benefit to the City’s Cultural Services Subfund. An overall economic impact of approximately $18 million was expected. Mr. Irwin said there were many partners in the process, including corporate sponsors, the UO, the City of Eugene, Lane County, and CVALCO. Those partnerships were essential to the success of the trials and he believed they established a framework for future events in Eugene. Mr. Irwin again commended Ms. Jones for her representation of the City and said she would be an important liaison for the committee. Mayor Piercy thanked the presenters and said she was both proud and a little bit scared. She agreed that the stakes were high but the opportunity was a great one for the community and the region. Mayor Piercy said that the council talked about sustainability frequently and the things that Mr. Masback mentioned with regard to highlighting Eugene’s green record seemed to be “so much us.” She thought the event gave residents the opportunity to share Eugene with the rest of the world. Mayor Piercy called on the council for questions and comments. Mr. Kelly thanked all those involved in bringing the event to Eugene. He was happy about the trials coming to Eugene. He said the event was exciting and significant for the community in terms of connections and opportunities. Mr. Kelly asked about opportunities for cross-promotion of other events. Ms. Jones said the entertainment committee would calendar other events with the goal of increasing room night stays. MINUTES—Eugene City Council February 8, 2006 Page 2 Work Session