ARTS COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
April 25, 2001 at 7:00 p.m.
740 Third Street
Brentwood, CA 94513
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to
order by Chairperson Robinson at 7:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Present were Chairperson Chris Robinson, Vice-Chairperson
Joe Trebino, Commissioners Jan Melloni, Ron Beatty, Helen Myers, William
Weber, Barbara Guise, and Don Meagher. Absent and excused were Mary
Hannigan and Alice Kamers. Others present included Sue Barry, Recreation
Services Supervisor and Mike Leana, Chief of Planning for the City of
Brentwood.
PRESENTATIONS: Daniel Huang, Retail Sales Manager for Contra Costa Newspapers,
Ledger Dispatch and Brentwood News, 1650 Cavallo Road, Antioch, CA 94509.
Phone, (925)779-7120, fax (925)754-9483. Mr. Huang was requested to
speak to the Commission regarding the Arts and Wine Festival in Lafayette.
He is a Director of the Chamber of Commerce in Lafayette and very active
in the production of this annual event. He gave a very complete overview
of the festival both in Lafayette but also touched on aspects of a similar
event in Walnut Creek. He stated they have a contact, Art Atkinson who
pays them a fee of approximately $13,000 to participate and brings in
the various groups for the festival, who then in turn also pay the Chamber
of Commerce a commission. Last year this amounted to a profit of approximately
$50,000. The festival brings in between 44 - 50 thousand people in two
days. Planning starts at this time of the year for the September event.
The City of Lafayette partners with the Chamber of Commerce. Although
the event does require a lot of work and volunteer groups, by hiring
the organizer, Mr. Atkinson he brings in the different vendors from
all over the State, and schedules their events. Police Department works
very closely with them for crowd control and traffic. They do mass advertising
to let people know, not locally, but all of Contra Costa County, San
Francisco and other adjacent areas. Utilization of print media, radio
and posters is important. Lots of local artists are promoted along with
those brought in, wine and beer vendors, and music. Different events
such as jazz, country and blues, also have a children’s center. He really
stressed partnership with city, business owners and careful how streets
are closed, so people are not shut off from business. They had three
stages for music, catered to different groups.
They do not charge admission, but instead sell glasses for wine and
beer. They have a variety of food vendors from all over, not many are
local. They hold their festival usually the second weekend in September.
He mentioned rain insurance is important, as even if just a drizzle,
it can cut down on attendance, then insurance will cover amount you
feel you lost due to weather. Cost is about $2,500 to $3,000.
He offered to bring his expertise to the group and help cut their work
down by supplying them with names and information to make work easier.
Some discussion of how this could work in Brentwood, along with already
scheduled events, such as summer concerts, Cornfest, and barbeque. Mr.
Huang also stated they get between 80 to 100 booths and close off Moraga
Road. Chamber receives rent from booths; vendor also gets percentage
of this rent. Local artists rented a hall, vendors in booths generally
from other areas. He also mentioned that last year they had local artists
do a painting of Lafayette and this was then used as advertising, the
oil painting was sold, and tee shirts and polo shirts for directors
were made from this painting and sold at the event also. They partner
with local high schools for the event for help. Cautioned to be careful
they didn’t get to open wines, etc. Give them rules and make sure they
follow them and don’t give them a reason for causing problems. But they
did get credits from schools for volunteer work and assisted at most
booths. Parking a problem, so they encouraged use of Bart and limos.
He stressed this is a family event and very well attended by families.
Barbara Guise concerned that since this is so much like the Cornfest
with a slightly different twist, wonders if this would be just too much.
Chairperson Robinson stated that the subcommittee has had a meeting
and Ron Beatty has done considerable research on this subject and has
a three-page report. The subcommittee’s feeling that if they start small,
possibly in October, this could be the way to go. Vice-Chairperson Trebino
is concerned about burnout from same set of volunteers. A suggestion
of tapping groups from Summerset for volunteers since they do not usually
get involved in Cornfest. Chairperson Robinson thought this event might
have a different ambiance, like a day in the park, walking around with
a glass of wine, music, etc.
Discussion of harvest-type festival with fruit etc. Mention of Taste
of Brentwood and all of the other events going on, possibly work in
with some of these, especially the Taste of Brentwood. Mr. Huang again
reiterated that he would be willing to help them if they decide to go
with this type of event and would bring his marketing people with him.
Chairperson thanked him and made sure Commission has his address, phone
number etc. so he can be contacted. Commissioner Guise requested that
people think of this as a craft, wine-tasting event, inside a building
so that people could buy things for Christmas.
AGENDA REVIEW: Commissioner Guise asked to add to the Agenda Review
a letter she had received from Mrs. Hanson, who is the USA representative
for International Design Posters. She had six copies of most memorable
poster exhibits from California to New Mexico. Winning exhibits go all
over the world. Vice-Chairperson Trebino noted this was published posters.
Rest of the Agenda was accepted, with the noted change on Agenda that
the approval of the minutes should state March 28, not February 28,
2001.
Barbara Guise moved the acceptance, and Vice-Chairperson Trebino
seconded and motion carried unanimously.
SCHEDULED MATTERS:
Item No. 4 Discussion on condition of the downtown fountain by Dave
Parsons, Streets Supervisor
Discussed methods used to try and clean up fountain and expressed concern
for fact that too harsh products could damage concrete because of color,
making it a softer consistency. There were questions about changing
water with softener, taking calcium out. Vice-Chairperson Trebino suggested
he has a product that has been very effective. It is an electronic system
and he is willing to offer it for this use. The concern of the Commission
and the Public Works Department is the product that is being dumped
into the fountain and to achieve a method once it is cleaned to keep
this vandalism from continuing. Commissioner Guise remarked that some
time ago the Chief of Police had installed a camera on the building
across the street to act as a surveillance on the fountain. She wondered
if this could be reinstalled. Mr. Parsons said this camera is no longer
available. He suggested that the best place for this would be on the
Brentwood Press Building.
Commissioner Guise then moved that the Arts Commission requests the
Chief of Police install a camera on the Brentwood Press Building, with
their permission, for surveillance purposes for the fountain. Commissioner
Melloni, seconded and motion carried unanimously.
Commission is very concerned about this fountain. Commissioner Melloni
suggested that since Swisher did the concrete, someone should talk to
him about the type of mix he used and suggestions for cleaning. Don
Meagher suggested that we get some publicity about the camera being
involved and the camera being in use. All Commissioners agreed. Mr.
Parsons said also need VCR with tape for investigation purposes. He
has worked with R & R in the past and will check with them. Commissioner
Guise said the Kiwanis Club is looking for projects and since she is
Chairperson of the community projects will see if they would like to
help pay for it. Commissioner Melloni said the cost of the system will
run about $5,000. Mr. Parsons also reported that the bottom tile is
floating above the surface and needs to be re-laid after fountain is
fixed. They need to drain and relay the tile. Commissioner Melloni will
check it out and see if her company could do that project at the request
of the Chairperson. Suggestion that there be an article in the paper
to the effect that the fountain is being drained due to the vandalism.
Then follow up with another article after it is repaired that the fountain
is now being put back into operation because there will now be a surveillance
camera there to monitor it and prevent further vandalism. Commissioner
Guise will call Brentwood Press and have them take a picture of fountain
drained, and run picture with article with suds in it, then drain and
go ahead with repairs. Commissioner Guise will call Mr. Parsons at his
office and let him know when to go ahead with the draining of the fountain.
Commission thanked Mr. Parsons for his help.
Item No. 5 Discussion regarding building color selections by Mike Leana,
Chief of Planning
He was thanked by Chairperson Robinson for the great tour of the City
and new developments. Director Bronzan had asked him to be there several
weeks ago and wasn’t quite sure what they were questioning. Chairperson
Robinson said mainly it was because of the purple building, thought
there was some type of law regarding color code of downtown buildings.
He reported there is not on existing buildings; however, on new buildings
the Planning Commission does expect to approve building materials, quality
and type of materials, and what they approve they expect to see built.
Once it is built, there are no standards that require anyone to come
back to the Commission and come back to staff to change colors and materials
at all. Downtown area has no restrictions on repainting. They did meet
with the applicants when the building in question changed color dramatically
and tried to get them to do something that was a little more harmonious
with the rest of downtown. They were not successful and ultimately the
powers that be did not want to push the issue. They now have a procedure
for buildings downtown, that if you are doing any remodeling or repainting,
we would like to see the colors, try to encourage someone to do something
compatible with the surroundings. Do expect to start work in next year
or year and half on a downtown specific plan, and it is very conceivable
at that time that this might be the mechanism in which they could legally
control some of the older buildings downtown, or construction of new
buildings downtown to look alike and what kind of color coordination
there should be. Commissioner Guise then questioned why McDonald’s could
not use traditional mustard and other colors with children’s center.
Some discussions did take place with staff on this subject. McDonald’s
representative was very adamant on maintaining bright yellow. He also
reported that the purple building’s owners, when contacted, brought
their attorney into the meeting and suddenly many meetings were taking
place with their attorney and City’s attorney, and Council did not want
to push any further. Some further discussion regarding this issue. Commissioner
Melloni asked Mr. Leana if there is some way that the Art Commission
could recommend that they look into this. Mr. Leana said yes, they could
send a recommendation to the City Council. Chairperson Robinson asked
who this should be directed to, and he said the Mayor and the City Manager.
Commissioner Meagher suggested that instead they look at Item #7 and
discuss options of ways to work with Planning Commission. Commission
decided to wait with ideas until this item is brought up.
Item No. 6 Discussion of recommended language regarding general policy
statement for general plan update related to art in public places by
Mike Leana, Chief of Planning.
Mr. Leana also presented this with a handout he had previously passed
out. He directed them to page II, 3-5, highlighted Policy 1.5 Art in
Public Places: Promote art in public places. He noted there is already
in existence three policies regarding art in public places. That was
incorporated when this General Plan was adopted in 1993. This actual
element, the community design element, will not be affected by the General
Plan Update, so this will remain in force. The City already has a policy
in the General Plan regarding public art. The next thing would be to
prepare some type of enabling ordinance. This would specify where it
would go, what types, who would have to put it in, where the funding
would come from, etc.
Chairperson Robinson then asked how to approach this. Mr. Leana suggested
have the staff check with some other cities that have gone through this
process and what type of ordinances they have. Individually you could
pull something from Internet. Discussion of Antioch’s art. Commissioner
Meagher thought good idea to check with Antioch, find out the connection
with developers in Antioch in placing art. Mr. Leana suggested they
look at the pull-out map in the presentation he gave them and see where
some good spots would be for art in the new development projects. He
said timing is good to look at this now. Vice-Chairperson Trebino discussed
marketing company he is working with and talked about signs by non-profits,
if having an event put signs on all entrances to Brentwood with a theme
of “Experience Brentwood” and show what events are going on at that
time. Chairperson Robinson asked that this be put on the agenda for
next meeting. She also thanked Mr. Leana for the tour and feels this
should be something done at least once a year by the group.
Item No. 7 Discuss options on Arts Commission working with Planning
Commission regarding art in public places by Mr. Mike Leana, Chief of
Planning.
Mr. Leana said the best way to look at this is first to get some type
of enabling ordinance that would obviously have to be supported by the
Council. A good way to establish some type of funding mechanism and
locations of public art. Once that is adopted by the Council, then the
Planning Commission would review a project site, and realize that on
any given project the pull-out map calls for some type of public art
somewhere in this development. So that then we could require the developer
to set aside some area for some type of public art. Then the developer
would have to come before you, as a Commission, and propose something.
And you would be able to look at it as the style of the buildings and
comment on it. He commented that before they had a Parks and Recreation
Commission, the Planning Commission would review park design. Now Planning
Commission just approves location for public park and look at the land
use impacts of a park in a specific location and then when that location
is decided on, then the actual design of the park comes to the Park
Commission. They then tell the developer what they want, and the developer
comes back with something and they approve it. I think this could work
the same way, but first, do need the enabling ordinance adopted by the
Council. Discussion of where to start and the Commissioners and Mr.
Leana felt that Antioch and Walnut Creek would have good plans, also
Concord. Sue Barry was directed to get copies of these ordinances and
bring them to the next meeting.
Item No. 8 Consideration of workshop with City Council regarding projects
and programs
Director Bronzan asked Mr. Leana to discuss this with the group. Mr.
Leana suggested that before they go too far, that they approach the
Council on this before getting too involved. Considerable discussion
of how to approach the City Council. One motion which failed for lack
of a second from Commissioner Guise that the Art Commission requests
a workshop with the City Council, prior to the City Council meeting.
More discussion followed and it was suggested that Director Bronzan
be the one to approach the City Council as Director of the Parks and
Recreation Dept.
Sue Barry then suggested several different dates to be suggested by
Art Commission to City Council and let them decide best time to meet
for workshop. She said Director Bronzan had suggested dates in late
summer or early fall. Discussion of times and dates everyone would be
available. Sue will get dates if possible before June 27th and bring
these back to the Arts Commission. Commissioner Meagher then asked if
what we are asking is whether or not they would support an ordinance
for public art. It would have to be an agenda item.
Commissioner Meagher moved that it be a two-part request for the
agenda. Part 1: Would the City Council be receptive to an ordinance
presenting a concept of art in public places? Motion seconded by Commissioner
Trebino, motion carried unanimously.
The discussion then went to Part 2: If the Council approves an ordinance,
how do they see it? (Meanwhile Commissioner Guise withdrew her previous
motion.) Commissioner Meagher said he would rather go with a plan, rather
than have them tell what their plan is as right now the Art Commission
is solid on what they want to do. It was agreed then to not vote the
amendment.
Item No. 9 Update on Summer Concert Series by Poldina Scherff
Sue Barry presented this as Ms. Scherff was not present. Sue reported
that not much has changed. We did receive a check for Russ Morgan and
were able to negotiate a lower price for Sin Sity Suitz. Signature Properties
will sponsor them at a price of $5,000. Brookfield Homes’ check for
$500 did come in, and Cowell has agreed to donate $2,000 and we are
still waiting for a check for that. She did speak with Richmond American
Homes. Jon Elam called John there and he is no longer there and so got
another name. Jon Elam has agreed to send concert information to this
other person and this has been done. Commissioner Guise again expressed
her feelings that bands are too expensive. She has discussed this with
the man in charge of Cornfest bands and he felt the same. Both felt
there should be more negotiating in prices. Chairperson Robinson suggested
check where bands have played before and what they have charged. Concerned
that prices could have been negotiated more. Commented that all have
listened to tapes. Much discussion and decided just need to advertise
and work to get audience. Vice-Chairperson Trebino questioned what the
role of the Art Commission is supposed to be in the Summer Concert Series.
Sue Barry responded that it was just brought to the Art Commission for
review of chosen bands for types and variety of music. There is also
the need for some volunteers from the Art Commission at the events.
Commissioner Guise then brought up a list of questions she had give
to Sue Barry and felt they need to be answered. Sue was going to give
them to Ms. Scherff, but Barbara wanted them read to the Commission
to see if they approved or had suggestions.
Discussion of beverages and coolers. Some felt bring their own food
and snacks and let them do whatever they want to. Restrictions discussed,
search of coolers, to deal with these problems. Several Commissioners
asked what is the purpose of the concert series, to make money, break
even or bring something back to community? Sue Barry reported that developer’s
fees pay for concerts only, the Police, food, etc. is separate. Discussion
of money lost last year and the need to generate more money. Money that
was promised did not come in last year. Chairperson Robinson said she
would like an accountability report, so they have an idea of what is
coming in and what needs to be generated. Commissioner Meagher suggested
in future maybe go for more local bands. Arts should be supporting local
art. Chairperson Robinson asked for clarification of what is expected
of Art Commission and answers to Commissioner Guise’s questions.
Item No. 10 Discussion of whether the Arts Commission wishes to add
a paragraph about the Commission to their page on the City website by
Sue Barry.
Chairperson Robinson thought this a great idea. Commissioner Melloni
concurred, wished for “Mission Statement”. Commissioner Guise moved
that we add a paragraph about the Commission to their page on the website.
Commissioner Meagher seconded and motion carried unanimously. Ms. Barry
then asked if the Commission wanted her to drop the paragraph and have
your Mission Statement and include your meeting dates? All Commissioners
agreed that was their intent.
Item No. 11 Discussion of East County Arts Network Hotline by Sue Barry
E-mail from Ann Sanders, East County Arts Network “Hotline” was included
in Arts Commission packets. This would be a good source for publicity.
Discussion of local plays in high schools, maybe forward to appropriate
person in high schools. Ms Barry will see to that.
Item No. 12 Update from Arts Commission Subcommittee for the downtown
barbecue by Sue Barry and Chris Robinson.
Chairperson Robinson reported that they had two subcommittee meetings
since last regular meeting. Subcommittee has voted to go ahead with
the barbecue and to keep it where it has been. Between meetings she
has visited with Angelo twice and he is very happy to keep it there.
He will do everything he is supposed to do as soon as date is picked.
Sweeney’s is up for sale; however he has promised if it is sold, he
will incorporate into contract that buyer take over as agreed all arrangements
for the barbecue.
Emanuel and Brentwood Dodge will also help with barbecue. Emanuel will
also call John Pepini and ask him to come back, whether he does or doesn’t
the dealership would help him or be in charge and take over. Suggestion
that Rotary do it again if they wish. When Rotary did this previously,
they paid for meat. Subcommittee will have to meet again and finalize
these arrangements. Suggestion that date be set for September 22. There
needs to be confirmation by Commission and approval.
Vice-Chairperson Trebino moved that the barbecue be held on September
22, 2001. Seconded by Commissioner Myers and motion carried unanimously.
Discussion of some details. Vice-Chairperson Trebino to take charge
of fence. He will talk to Director Bronzan about this. Chairperson Robinson
will have informal meeting at her home. Commissioner Beatty will get
more information to Summerset. Vice-Chairperson Trebino to check with
Boys Ranch about setting up tables.
Item No. 13 Discussion of City tour for possible art locations
Chairperson Robinson reported that she thoroughly enjoyed herself on
the tour. She would seriously like to see the group try this again when
everyone can go.
Item No. 14 Update on bronze statue by Commissioner Weber
He is working on small model and then will begin large model. Cost figures
were requested and he responded that the foundry wants roughly $15,000,
and another $20,000 artist fee, roughly $35,000 at this point. Asked
by Commissioners if by barbecue they might have a model to show and
get donations. Vice-Chairperson Trebino reported they have $4,400 in
bank. Some of this is assigned for the Skate Park. Mary is working on
designs for this.
CITIZENS COMMENTS: None
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS: Chairperson Robinson would like to have shirts
for all of the Art Commission. This would make public aware that they
are out there and give them identification. Ms Barry will be taking
care of that project.
Discussion about grants from government. The City has a grant writer
and should be able to handle this for them.
Commissioner Guise moved that the Art Commission send a letter to
Jon Elam requesting that grant writer Karen Wahl pursue the grants for
the Art Commission to see what is available. Commissioner Melloni seconded
and motion carried unanimously.
Question as to where the statue would be going, and response was the
future site of the Home Depot.
Commissioner Meagher passed out information on upcoming events of Encore
Mario with new artists performing Mario Lanza. Next dates are April
28 and May 6, 2001 in San Francisco.
Commissioner Beatty reported that the subcommittee’s feeling on how
far they should go with Arts and Wine, October Arts Festival. Maybe
start with a small version with Taste of Brentwood. More discussion
by other members of the Commission. This would be only three weeks after
the barbecue. Commissioner Melloni thought might be better to wait until
spring.
REQUEST FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Experience Brentwood (Vice-Chairperson Trebino)
Copies of art ordinances from Antioch, Walnut Creek and Concord (Sue
Barry)
Dates for workshop with City Council (Sue Barry and Craig Bronzan)
Concept for art in public places . . . is City Council receptive to
idea?
Summer Concert Series - Art Commission’s responsibilities and clarification
ADJOURNMENT: Chairperson Robinson adjourned the meeting at 9:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Jo Whincup
Minutes Recorder
