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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCAC 02-08-2023 APPROVED minutes CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH CITY ARTS COMMISSION MINUTES Newport Beach Public Library 1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Wednesday, February 8, 2023 –Study Session / Regular Meeting City Arts Commission Members: Arlene Greer, Chair Maureen Flanagan, Vice Chair Leonard Simon, Secretary Wayan Kaufman, Commissioner Marie Little, Commissioner Barbara George, Commissioner Staff Members: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Camille Escareal-Garcia, Cultural Arts Assistant Page 1 CALL TO ORDER Chair Greer called the Study Session to order at 4:07 p.m. I. ROLL CALL Commissioners Present: Chair Greer Vice Chair Flanagan Secretary Simon Commissioner Little Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Kaufman (attended Regular Meeting) Commissioner George (excused absence) Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Camille Escareal-Garcia, Cultural Arts Assistant II. CURRENT BUSINESS 1. Discussion of bands for consideration of the 2023 Newport Beach Summer Concert Series / Concert at Marina Park. The City Arts Commission (CAC) held a study session to determine Commissioner recommendations for bands for the 2023 Newport Beach Summer Concert Series / Concert at Marina Park. Each commissioner recommended five bands. Chair Greer asked for Public Comment and there was none. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 2 Chair Greer directed the Commission to Page 49 of the Agenda for the study session material and read staff’s recommendation for the CAC to select performers for the Summer Concert Series and the Concert at Marina Park event in the fall. The total cost including sound engineering for three summer concerts is estimated at approximately $24,000 dollars. The funds will be expensed from the CAC 2023 / 2024 FISCAL YEAR programming budget account. The total cost to include performance fees, staging, security rental, children’s activities, and sound engineering for the Concert at Marina Park is estimated at $10,000 dollars and will also be expensed from the CAC 2023 / 2024 FISCAL YEAR programming budget account. Each Commissioner introduced their top five recommendations which included: Vice Chair Flanagan's Recommendations: • The Sully Band (R&B covers / original music) • The Heart of Rock and Roll (Huey Lewis tribute) • Springsteen Experience (Bruce Springsteen tribute) • CSN Express (Crosby, Stills, and Nash tribute) • The Reagan Years (80’s Genre cover band) Chair Greer’s recommendations: • Springsteen Experience • Elvis Presley tribute (Bill Cherry or Jay Dupuis) • Unforgettable Fire (U2 tribute) • Mirage or Gypsy Dreams (Fleetwood Mac tribute) • Petty and the Heart Shakers (Tom Petty and the Heart Breakers tribute) **Proposed by the Commission in 2020 and could not perform due to COVID-19 Protocol • While not on the list of bands, Chair Greer also recommended Rumours, another Fleetwood Mac tribute band. Secretary Simon’s recommendations: • Mr. Blue Sky (Electric Light Orchestra tribute) • Abba Cadabra (Abba tribute) • Gary Anthony (Frank Sinatra) / The Las Vegas Rat Pack (Rat Pack tribute) **Gary Anthony is the Frank Sinatra of The Las Vegas Rat Pack group • Peter, Paul and Mary Alive (Peter, Paul, and Mary tribute) • Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control (Singer/songwriter) – Specifically for Marina Park Commissioner Little’s recommendations: • Brass Transit (Chicago tribute) • Elvis Tribute (Ben Portsmouth or Jay Dupuis) • Rob Cudill (Rod Stewart tribute) • Shining Star (Earth, Wind, and Fire tribute) • Old Friends (Simon and Garfunkel tribute) – Specifically for Marina Park Springsteen Experience and Elvis Presley Tribute were the only two cross-referenced bands picked by multiple commissioners. The CAC listened to samples of the two bands. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 3 Secretary Simon wished to confirm if The Springsteen Experience comes with a band. The CAC listened to samples of Shining Star, The Sully Band, Mr. Blue Sky, Mirage, Rumours, Petty and the Heart Shakers, Brass Transit, Abba Cadabra, The Las Vegas Rat Pack, Old Friends, and Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control. The Sully Band performed on the Concerts on the Green back in 2021, and at the time offered to perform again for free. Rumours were also previous performers on the Concerts on the Green. Secretary Simon commented that Mr. Blue Sky and The Sully Band appear to be crowd participatory bands, which is better received by the community. He also stated that considerations for the Marina Park Concert will have limited electricity, a smaller stage, and the crowd tends to be older. The final list for vote selection in the Regular meeting include: • Elvis (Ben Portsmouth) • Shining Star • Springsteen Experience • The Sully Band • Tom Petty and the Heart Shakers • Rumours • Brass Transit • The Las Vegas Rat Pack • Mr. Blue Sky • Old Friends • Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control III. PUBLIC COMMENTS Jim Mosher, Newport Beach resident, commented that the Cultural Arts Grants seems to be repeating last year’s donation schedule for the distribution of funds and consideration should be given to different smaller organizations. Mr. Mosher also mentioned that the Planning Commission voted to approve a duplex to be built that will be higher than the standard building code allows at their regularly scheduled meeting on January 19, 2023. In exchange, the applicant wishes to donate $30,000 to a Newport Beach “public art fund.” The applicant mentioned funds specifically going towards the Sculpture Garden in Civic Center Park. That decision could potentially be called for review by City Council and will require a Coastal Development permit. IV. ADJOURNMENT Motion made by Chair Greer, seconded by Secretary Simon, and carried (4-0-0-2) to adjourn the Study Session. AYES: Greer, Flanagan, Simon, Little, City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 4 NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Kaufman, George V. THE CITY ARTS COMMISSION RECONVENED AT 5:04 P.M. FOR REGULAR MEETING. Chair Greer called to order the Regular Meeting of The City Arts Commission (CAC). VI. ROLL CALL Commissioners Present: Chair Greer Vice Chair Flanagan Secretary Simon Commissioner Little Commissioner Kaufman Commissioners Absent: Commissioner George (excused) Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Camille Escareal-Garcia, Cultural Arts Assistant VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS None VIII. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC The City provides a yellow sign-in card to assist in the preparation of the minutes. The City Arts Commission of Newport Beach welcomes and encourages community participation. Public comments are generally limited to three (3) minutes per person to allow everyone to speak. Written comments are encouraged as well. The City Arts Commission has the discretion to extend or shorten the time limit on agenda or non-agenda items. As a courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in silent mode. IX. CONSENT CALENDAR A. Approval of Minutes of the January 12, 2023, City Arts Commission Meeting Draft of 01/12/2023 Minutes 2. Draft of 01/12/2023 Minutes Chair Greer asked if there were any revisions, corrections or comments about the minutes and there were none. Motion made by Secretary Simon, seconded by Chair Greer, and carried (5-0-0-1) to City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 5 approve the Minutes of the January 12, 2023, City Arts Commission Meeting. AYES: Greer, Flanagan, Simon, Little, Kaufman NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: George B. Consent Calendar Items 3. Financial Report Review of financial information. Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director, provided a staff report to the CAC. There was some movement to begin the Sculpture Garden Exhibition in Civic Center Park, Phase VIII. Within those line items, the Newport Beach Arts Foundation gift has been added, as well as the invoices from Arts Orange County(Arts OC) for this phase of the exhibition. Staff is working with City Finance to transfer the $14,000 from the Cultural Arts Programming Budget (01060603-841004) and the $10,000 from Professional Services, both of which were approved by the CAC earlier in the Fiscal Year. Secretary Simon inquired about the account listed for Special Events category for Newport Beach Art Exhibition with nothing listed under the account. Library Services Director Hartson explained the account is a revenue account that has been set up for entry fees. As those fees start coming in, the amount will be reflected. Secretary Simon asked if the expenditure for that will fall under Programming. Library Services Director Hartson responded those expenses will be categorized under programming. 4. Cultural Arts Activities Monthly review of cultural arts activities from the Library Administrative Office for upcoming Library and City arts events and services. Library Services Director Hartson reported there is a floral photography exhibit currently open by Sandra Pipkin at the Central Library Gallery Exhibits. It boasts a beautiful pop of color and will be on exhibit through March 5, 2023. The second floor of the Student Art Exhibition artwork is also on display and will be taken down on Friday, February 10, 2023. Items of note include Tuesday February 14, Arts OC will be presenting the Sculpture Garden Phase VIII recommendations from the Commission, based upon the survey City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 6 results. On February 28, staff will be taking the Cultural Art Grants recommendations to City Council depending on the outcome of this meeting. Commissioner Little requested a reminder be sent to the Commissioners about the February 28, 2023 City Council meeting. Secretary Simon commented his Homeowner’s Association had a meeting at the Library and comments were made about the Student’s Art Exhibition and how lovely Sandra Pipkin’s exhibit was. Chair Greer mentioned Saturday March 4, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. will be the Laguna 41st Annual Museum of Art Exhibition. Tickets must be purchased online, and the art will be put up for auction. It could be a good opportunity for the CAC to visit and take note of artists they may want to include in their exhibition. Chair Greer asked for public comments on the Consent Calendar items and there were none. Motion made by Secretary Simon, seconded by Vice Chair Flanagan, and carried (5-0-0-1) to approve the Consent Calendar. AYES: Greer, Flanagan, Simon, Little, Kaufman NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: George XII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS **(Item heard out of order) Chair Greer made an exception for comments on non-Agenda items due to the expected length of discussion for the upcoming items. Laura Curran, a Corona del Mar resident, thanked Director Hartson for meeting with her and provided comments regarding the Sculpture Exhibition and how many people are utilizing the app which enables visitors to see what the plants are in the park. It’s a great app and the park is so beautiful; it would be a huge benefit if there was a way to provide more information about the robust way Newport Beach is incorporating the coastal native plants in Civic Center Park. One suggestion might be to have tours alongside Sculpture Exhibition events during the summer. Ms. Curran inquired if this is something the CAC might consider. Kyle Cheesborough, the Sherman Library & Gardens' Horticulture Director and the previous botanist for the St. Louis zoo and St. Louis Historic Cemetery, relayed they started doing nature-focused tours at their historic cemetery and they were very well received. He offered to help the City of Newport Beach set up interpretive tours with guides. It would be a wonderful way to engage the public, and this will be a great year to start those types of tours with all the recent rain. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 7 Secretary Simon strongly believed this was a tremendous idea as it would draw in horticulturists to see the sculptures, as well as provide the artists with engagement opportunities in the horticultural aspect of the park. Chair Greer agreed and suggested the Commission bring that back as an item for a future Agenda. She also suggested that the CAC should meet with Director Hartson to discuss how to get started. Chair Greer thanked Ms. Curran for the great idea and assured her that the CAC is interested in pursuing that as an option for potential events in Civic Center Park. Director Hartson added she believed there would be a component in that process that would involve Parks and Recreation, and that anything involving book discussions or author lectures would involve the Library. X. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Items for Review and Possible Action 5. 2023 Concerts on the Green and Marina Park Concert Staff recommends that the City Arts Commission select bands for the summer 2023 Concerts on the Green series and the fall Marina Park Concert. Camille Escareal-Garcia, Cultural Arts Assistant, reviewed the information from the study session and listed the attending commissioners’ preferences. Vice Chair Flanagan's Recommendations: • The Sully Band (R&B covers / original music) • The Heart of Rock and Roll (Huey Lewis tribute) • Springsteen Experience (Bruce Springsteen tribute) • CSN Express (Crosby, Stills, and Nash tribute) • The Reagan Years (80’s Genre cover band) Chair Greer’s recommendations: • Springsteen Experience • Elvis Presley tribute (CAC preference was Ben Portsmith) • Unforgettable Fire (U2 tribute) • Mirage or Gypsy Dreams (CAC preference was Rumours) • Petty and the Heart Shakers (Tom Petty and the Heart Breakers tribute) Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia indicated that while not on the list of bands, Chair Greer also recommended Rumours, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band who performed at the Civic Center Green previously. Petty and the Heart Shakers had been proposed by the Commission to perform in 2020 and could not perform due to COVID-19. Secretary Simon’s recommendations: • Mr. Blue Sky (Electric Light Orchestra tribute) City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 8 • Abba Cadabra (ABBA tribute) • The Las Vegas Rat Pack (Rat Pack tribute) • Peter, Paul and Mary Alive (Peter, Paul, and Mary tribute) • Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control (Singer/songwriter) – Specifically for Marina Park Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia mentioned after sampling Abba Cadabra during the study session, the Commissioners chose unanimously they were not a direction they wanted to pursue. Commissioner Little’s recommendations: • Brass Transit (Chicago tribute) • Elvis Tribute • Rob Cudill (Rod Stewart tribute) • Shining Star (Earth, Wind, and Fire tribute) • Old Friends (Simon and Garfunkel tribute) – Specifically for Marina Park The bands that received the most positive reviews are Rumours, Brass Transit, Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, The Sully Band, Ben Portsmith (Elvis tribute), and Mr. Blue Sky. Secretary Simon commented he derived the list of the top 10 most well received from the study session as: • Springsteen Experience • Elvis (Ben Portsmouth) • Shining Star • Mr. Blue Sky • The Sully Band • Petty and the Heart Shakers • Brass Transit • The Las Vegas Rat Pack • Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control • Old Friends Secretary Simon stated that 5 bands are needed and 10 were picked. They could split the number in half and use 5 of the 10 as alternates. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia confirmed should she be unable to acquire the top 5 bands, she would utilize the remaining 5 to fill the gaps depending on the band’s availability. Library Services Director Hartson interjected that there will be 4 concerts total, perhaps the list should be narrowed down to 8. Chair Greer inquired about the status of Homer Bludau and the Marine 1/1 Foundation Band. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 9 Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia replied she had reached out to Mr. Bludau. He appreciated the Commission’s interest in the Marine 1/1 Foundation band; however, the band is restricted to events recognized by the Marines and they would not be able to perform for the concert series at Civic Center Park. Secretary Simon suggested coinciding it with a Veteran’s event would allow them to perform. Commissioner Kaufman inquired if it’s possible for the Marine 1/1 Foundation to apply for a Cultural Arts Grant (CAG) to subsidize an event like that, or if it would be a community development grant. Library Services Director Hartson responded that the CAG has specific requirements, and they would have to qualify. Commissioner Little reported that it was mentioned in the study session that The Sully Band had offered to play for free back in 2021 and wondered if they were serious about that offer. She wondered if it would be possible to do four summer series concerts instead of only three. Library Services Director Hartson noted there would still be the cost of sound production services, security and clean-up costs, and that The Sully Band made that offer shortly after their last performance several years ago. Staff would inquire if their offer is still open. Chair Greer commented that the cost to cover the sound equipment is $3,500 dollars. Director Hartson added the sound equipment expense is a little more than the cost of the band. Secretary Simon summarized that the list of top 10 had been established, the Commission needed to drop 2, and requested suggestions. Commissioner Little suggested determining the Marina concert band, which might drop a couple of the bands on the top-10 list. Vice Chair Flanagan commented that her preference is Old Friends over Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control for the Marina concert. Commissioner Little expressed Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control would attract people of all ages over an era band such as the Rat Pack, or Old Friends. Secretary Simon commented that his vote for first four would be The Sully Band, Mr. Blue Sky, Brass Transit, and Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control. Vice Chair Flanagan listed her vote for first four are The Sully Band, Springsteen Experience, Earth Wind and Fire (Shining Star), and Chicago (Brass Transit). City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 10 Commissioner Little stated her vote for first four includes Brass Transit, Ben Portsmith (Elvis Tribute), Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, and Mr. Blue Sky (Electric Light Orchestra tribute). Chair Greer listed her vote for of first four as the Springsteen Experience, Elvis (Ben Portsmith), The Sully Band, and Rumours (Fleetwood Mac Tribute) if they are available. Commissioner Kaufman listed her vote of first four would be the Elvis Tribute, Rumours (Fleetwood Mac Tribute), Springsteen Experience, and Petty and the Heart Shakers, as she believes both Fleetwood Mac and Tom Petty would be very popular. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia summarized Elvis, The Sully Band, Springsteen Experience, and Brass Transit all have the highest votes (with three votes each) and indicated she would reach out to those four to see who’s available. She would base the choice for the Marina Park concert on the band’s availabilities. Chair Greer suggested considering The Sully Band for Marina Park as well, since they’ve performed previously, as did Springsteen. Secretary Simon felt the stage is too small at Marina Park for The Sully Band or Brass Transit and recounted the remaining bands. He summarized that bands who received two votes were Mr. Blue Sky, Rumours, Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, with one vote for Shining Star. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia divided the bands into Group A and Group B. Group A as The Sully Band, The Springsteen Experience, Brass Transit, and Ben Portsmith (Elvis). Group B consists of Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, Mr. Blue Sky, and Rumours. Petty and the Heart Shakers and Shining Star each had one vote. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia provided music samples of Shining Star (Earth Wind and Fire) and Petty and the Heart Shakers (Tom Petty cover band). Vice Chair Flanagan commented she’d like to change her vote for Shining Star to Tom Petty due to the fact that they had been scheduled during Covid and were not able to play. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia confirmed that Petty and the Heart Shakers was the unanimous choice over Shining Star. Secretary Simon suggested they choose from the top four which band would be small enough for the Marina Park stage. Commissioner Little commented she felt all four bands would be well attended at Marina Park, and in turn might cause a parking issue. If an era band was chosen for Marina Park, the chances of having parking issues would lessen considerably and suggested they pick three of the top four for the summer series, and then choose one more appropriate band for the Marina Park venue. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 11 Secretary Simon stated his top three of the top four bands would be Sully, Brass Transit, and Elvis. Vice Chair Flanagan expressed her top three as Sully, Springsteen, and Brass Transit. Commissioner Little commented that her top three of the top four would be The Sully Band, Ben Portsmouth (Elvis tribute), and Brass Transit. Chair Greer added that her top three would be the Springsteen Experience, the Elvis tribute, and Brass Transit. Commissioner Kaufman said her top three would be the Springsteen Experience, Brass Transit, and The Sully Band. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia presented the results. Brass Transit received five votes, The Sully Band received four votes, Springsteen Experience and Ben Portsmouth (Elvis tribute) received three votes. Brass Transit and The Sully Band would be contenders for the Concert on the Greens venue, with Ben Portsmith (Elvis) or Springsteen Experience at Marina Park, depending on the band’s availability. Secretary Simon commented that the Springsteen Experience has a sizable band backing up the singer, which should be a consideration. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia summarized the Group A band list is The Sully Band, Brass Transit, Springsteen Experience, and Ben Portsmith, with Springsteen Experience and Elvis being the top picks for the Marina Park Concert in the fall. She will do her best to match the Commission’s choices, as the band’s availability could alter the choices. Secretary Simon reiterated that the size of the band is also a factor and inquired if Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia was aware of the size and power restrictions of the venue. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia responded she does not have the exact dimensions of the stage but would look into it. The Group B band list is Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, Mr. Blue Sky, Rumours, and Petty and the Heart Shakers. Commissioner Little expressed concern about the parking availability, as that is an important factor to keep in mind. Commissioner Kaufman remembered last year at the Balboa Peninsula there was a shuttle service to Marina Park during the summer. She inquired when that shuts down. Library Services Director Hartson replied that the shuttle expires after the Labor Day weekend. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 12 Secretary Simon added that another concern with parking issues is the bad reviews the City will get if there aren’t ample parking spaces. Commissioner Little commented that her earlier suggestion was to choose three of the four bands appropriate for Civic Center Green, and then make selections appropriate for Marina Park. Secretary Simon inquired if Parks and Recreation or the city police might be available to help organize the parking at the concert. Commissioner Little replied the only solution is to make more parking spaces and that is not an option. Vice Chair Flanagan asked who runs the shuttle and if it would be an option to request them for the concert. Library Services Director Hartson answered the shuttle is grant funded and has a very specific time frame they are available, Memorial through Labor Day. Commissioner Little added the shuttle is run by Orange County Transit Authority and the concerts have to be scheduled earlier due to lack of lighting for after-dark events. Chair Greer stated typically they are not allowed to have a concert until after the availability of the shuttle has expired. She requested staff let them know if a change in policy amends the availability dates for the shuttle. She also mentioned there will be competition this year, as many cities are scheduling concerts due to recent grant funds made available. Chair Greer confirmed that Group A includes The Sully Band, Springsteen, Brass Transit, and Ben Portsmouth (Elvis tribute) and Group B includes Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, Mr. Blue Sky, Rumours (pending their availability), and Petty and the Heart Shakers. Secretary Simon suggested pairing a Group A band to a Group B band so the alternates would be similar if needed. Vice Chair Flanagan suggested The Sully Band’s alternate is Petty and the Heart Shakers. Springsteen Experience’s alternate could be Rumours, Ben Portsmouth (Elvis tribute) alternate could be Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, and Brass Transit’s alternate could be Mr. Blue Sky. Motion made by Chair Greer, seconded by Secretary Simon, and carried (5-0-0-1) to approve The Sully Band’s alternate is Petty and the Heart Shakers. Springsteen Experience’s alternate would be Rumours, Ben Portsmouth (Elvis tribute) alternate would be Tiffany Dennis and Cruise Control, and Brass Transit’s alternate would be Mr. Blue Sky. AYES: Greer, Flanagan, Simon, Little, Kaufman City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 13 NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: George 6. 2023 Cultural Arts Grants Staff recommends that the City Arts Commission review grant applications and approve the recipients for recommendation to City Council for the 2023 Cultural Arts Grants in accordance with City Council Policy I-10 – Financial Support for Culture and Arts. Chair Greer directed the Commission to Handwritten Page 49, the summation for the item is on Handwritten Page 48. Commissioner Kaufman mentioned for the record that under the discussion section, it was noted that the Commission received written grant proposals from 10 organizations, when it was only 8 organizations. Director Hartson reported that Backhausdance, Balboa Island Improvement Association (BIIA), Baroque Music Festival CdM, Laguna Playhouse, Pacific Chorale, Pacific Symphony, South Coast Repertory, and Kontrapunktus were the eight applicants for a total amount being just under $35,000 dollars. The subcommittee’s recommendation is $30,000 dollars for grant applicants. Kontrapunktus would not be considered due to a projected accumulated surplus of $138,477 at the end of FY 2022-23. Commissioner Kaufman agreed with Mr. Mosher’s comments earlier that the list of applicants had become “fossilized”. She reached out to several new organizations and for various reasons they weren’t able to submit their applications in time. Her hope is that they will participate in the future and if possible, have a discussion later about more funding at a later date. The justifications for their recommendations are listed on the spreadsheet. Secretary Simon believes part of the conflict with submitting the applications in time is due to the complexity of the application process for a small 501(c)(3) to endure. The larger organizations are more familiar with grant application processes and generally have large packages on hand. The CAC may want to consider some type of future workshop to help the smaller charitable organizations navigate the application process. Commissioner Kaufman agreed with Secretary Simon however, the grant trend in philanthropy has moved away from applications and proposals as they want their non-profit partners to use that time for programming and doing the work. Chair Greer mentioned the General Plan is currently being updated and she is Co- Chair. She suggested that putting something in writing would be easy to share. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 14 Secretary Simon spoke about how Kontrapunktus hasn’t received a grant the last two years and stated due to their projected accumulated surplus of $138,477 at the end of FY 2022-23. With the grant being limited, the subcommittee didn’t feel the $2,000 they requested would make or break their projects. When he reviews applicants, he considers how much will be spent on their program, how many Newport Beach community members will be accommodated, and what their fiscal performance is. The result of the subcommittee evaluations is as follows: Organization Grant Request Grant Recommendation Backhausdance $4,000 $3,000 Balboa Island Improvement Association $3,000 $3,000 Baroque Music Festival, CdM $6,000 $5,000 Laguna Playhouse $5,000 $5,000 Pacific Chorale $5,000 $4,500 Pacific Symphony $5,000 $5,000 South Coast Repertory $5,000 $4,500 Total $30,000 The subcommittee focused on organizations with programs for youth. The information at the top of Handwritten Page 49 reflects: 1. The percentage of the project the requested grant amount would cover, in addition to the number of people the program will serve, 2. Newport Beach residents are reflected separate from the total number of people served, 3. The middle columns show how much of each organizations budget is allotted for their programs, and how much of their budget is allocated towards marketing. Secretary Simon noted a typo was made in Laguna Playhouse’s numbers and he will correct it for the documentation of the grant. Chair Greer felt the selections were great and appreciated Secretary Simon and Commissioner Kaufman for working together on these. She was happy to hear Secretary Simon attended an event held by the Baroque Music Festival. She encouraged the commissioners to reach out and see what the organizations are doing as a way of showing support. The breakdown of information was very helpful. Secretary Simon noted that Handwritten Pages 50 – 189 reflect the number of grant proposals that were received and is an indication of the amount of paperwork that goes into the applications. One option to help smaller organizations stay interested in submitting applications might be to include a short form of the information required for the grant request and Secretary Simon offered to assist in that process. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 15 Chair Greer asked if some of the application questions are redundant. Secretary Simon answered there were a few questions he found redundant, and the process package is too much to read. Chair Greer agreed and requested staff look at the application process more closely and return with recommendations on how to streamline it for the benefit of the organizations and the commissioners making the evaluations. Library Services Director Hartson indicated she would do the research to find out the City requirements for the application process and if some of the current requirements can be amended. Commissioner Little suggested also looking at what other cities include. Commissioner Kaufman added she had previously attempted to work with the music Director at Harborview Elementary School and Anderson Elementary School, however the application process opened when he was working on the holiday concerts for the schools and didn’t have the time available. There is $10,000 sitting in the restricted fund and Commissioner Kaufman was interested in exploring if those funds could be added to the grant funds through a more simple request and proposal. Chair Greer indicated that Commissioner Kaufman secured those funds for specific use towards programs for children and they never had the opportunity to use them. She stated that it could be something to look into. Vice Chair Flanagan inquired if the timing of the grants should be changed. Commissioner Little explained that it has been moved before. She felt there are pros and cons to doing so, as it’s always going to be a bad time for someone. Secretary Simon suggested reaching out to organizations ahead of when the application cycle opens. Chair Greer suggested utilizing teachers to create a program rather than putting the responsibility on staff, should the money in restricted funds be reallocated into grants. Staff could expedite the program. In the past the Commission was able to use left over money for additional specific programs. Motion made by Secretary Simon, seconded by Commissioner Little, and carried (5- 0-0-1) to approve the subcommittee recommended organizations and grant awards. AYES: Greer, Flanagan, Simon, Little, Kaufman NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: George 7. Exhibition of Art at the Central Library City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 16 The Art in Public Spaces Library Gallery Ad Hoc Subcommittee recommends that the City Arts Commission approve exhibitions by artists Colleen Johns and Sherry Marger in the gallery space in the Central Library lobby. Chair Greer showed the binder that included the artist samples by Colleen Johns and Sherry Marger. The City maintains two exhibit spaces at the Central Library. There is approximately 40 linear feet of wall space and two display cabinets that were added to the Central Library offerings in 2010. Each display cabinet is 24” x 24” x 24”. Artists submit completed applications for the consideration of exhibiting and the Library Services Director manages the gallery space. The Art in Public Spaces Ad Hoc Subcommittee met to review the applications. At their January meeting, the Subcommittee recommended the work of Colleen Johns and Sherry Marger be exhibited, subject to CAC approval. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia stated that historically, specific pieces were not chosen by the Subcommittee for artist display. She questioned if the Commission wanted to provide direction for specific piece preferences by Colleen Johns due to the number of submissions. Chair Greer suggested that due to the number of samples provided, they may want to have the curator review the pieces as well. She stated that the floral pieces and landscapes are preferred and asked for Commissioner Little’s input on how the curator could make the exhibition look well. Commissioner Little confirmed the subcommittee discussed the number of pieces submitted, and the curator should be allowed to review the samples for pieces that would not fit in the space provided for the exhibits. The artists would be approved at tonight’s meeting, the next step would be contacting the curator for input. Chair Greer requested staff inform her of the curator’s choices before she contacts the artists. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia explained the space allows for 25 pieces per artist, depending on the size of the pieces, and she informs the artists that the installer will assist in selecting the pieces appropriate for the space available. Commissioner Little indicated most of the pieces were smaller in size. Chair Greer commented she’s seen Colleen Johns’ work and it is beautiful. The City has asked her to exhibit her work for years and prior to now, she’s never wanted to display them. Mayor Blom convinced her to reconsider. Vice Chair Flanagan shared that she kayaks with Sherry Marger and believes that she had painted live during a past Newport Beach Art Exhibition. She suggested that maybe Sherry Marger would be willing to paint again during the event. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 17 Chair Greer thought that was an excellent idea and asked Vice Chair Flanagan to invite Ms. Marger to paint during the exhibition. Motion made by Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Little, and carried (5-0-0-1) to approve the exhibitions by artists Colleen Johns and Sherry Marger in the gallery space in the Central Library lobby. AYES: Greer, Flanagan, Simon, Little, Kaufman NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: George B. Monthly Reports 8. Newport Beach Art Exhibition Ad Hoc Subcommittee Commissioners Arlene Greer and Maureen Flanagan Chair Greer reported the Newport Beach Art Exhibition Ad Hoc Subcommittee map created in 2019 is the format being used for this year. The Subcommittee inquired with Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia to see if publicity and marketing could be added to the budget depending on staff’s recommendation. The subcommittee is meeting on a regular basis and currently working on the Pavilion on the Civic Center Green, and the Art Exhibition. The entire event will be combined with the grand opening of Phase VIII of the Sculpture Garden in Civic Center Park. The exhibition is scheduled for Saturday June 24, 2023. Check-in is Friday June 23, from 3-6:00 p.m. There will be an orientation for volunteers, and all Commissioners are being asked to help. Spouses are also welcome as they will need all the volunteers they can get. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia passed around a phone script for the Commissioners. She felt if each commissioner could take two pages, that should be sufficient and not overwhelming for each commissioner. Chair Greer suggested dividing it up and sending it out via email. Vice Chair Flanagan suggested each Commissioner take two pages now. Secretary Simon wished to confirm if the current lists do not include artists who have already replied. Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia replied that is correct, the artists who have replied are not on the lists. Chair Greer commented she will reach out to Commissioner George for her two pages. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 18 Vice Chair Flanagan stated two commissioners will need to take an additional page due to the Cultural Arts Commission consisting of six commissioners. Chair Greer stated it is important for each Commissioner to contact the artists and follow up with Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia to ensure the applications are being submitted. Due to the Commission being governed by the Brown Act, the commissioners are not allowed to confer with each other. Vice Chair Flanagan suggested each of them make notes on their lists, scan the lists with the notes and email them to Cultural Arts Assistant Escareal-Garcia. Chair Greer advised the lists should be submitted before the next CAC meeting. 9. Newport Beach Arts Foundation Liaison Ad Hoc Subcommittee Commissioners Maureen Flanagan, and Arlene Greer Chair Greer reported that the Newport Beach Arts Foundation formed a committee consisting of Jett Wang, Leslie O’Rourke, and Pat Jorgensen to meet with Jeff Parker to consider the CAC’s suggestion for a Surf Film Exhibition featuring Mr. Parker’s film Echo Beach. Their meeting conflicted with the CAC February meeting; an update will be provided in the March meeting. Commissioner Little stated one meeting has already taken place and another is scheduled prior to the next CAC meeting. She will provide an update during the March meeting. Chair Greer stated she created a report for the Foundation and invited them to attend the February 14, 2023 meeting in the Council Chambers, it would be an opportunity to thank them for their donation, which Council typically has done that in the past. XI. CITY ARTS COMMISSION ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION, ACTION, OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM) Chair Greer requested that Commissioner Little’s report for the Surf Film Exhibition and the Art in Public Spaces committee monthly report be added to the March agenda. Chair Greer also requested that a future agenda include the proposed offer of purchase for two sculptures: Migration of My Dreams by Marisabel Bazan and Woodpeckers by Michael McLaughlin, as well as the proposed donation of Celestial Carousel by Adrian Susnea Litman. All artists are from Phase VI of the Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park. Vice Chair Flanagan met with the Corona del Mar Historical Society and they are very interested in building a statue to honor Duke Kahanamoku and requested an update for this item be added to the next Agenda. City Arts Commission Meeting February 8, 2023 Page 19 Chair Greer requested an update from the ad hoc subcommittee regarding revisions to City Council Policies I-9, I-10, I-11, and I-12, and the sister cities amendments to review and revise as necessary. Secretary Simon requested additional marketing efforts for the CAC and the Sculpture Garden be considered and added to the March CAC agenda for discussion. Chair Greer noted the Newport Beach Arts Foundation always welcomes notices regarding upcoming events on their website. XII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS None XIII. ADJOURNMENT Approved by: Arlene Greer