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Chairperson Loll thanked agency representatives for attending the meeting and advised that the Commission will review all applications carefully, but will be mindful of allocating taxpayers money wisely. He commented on: 1) the fact that the grant program is changing and agencies should be aware of upcoming Workshops and make an effort to attend these workshops, 2) the Pleasanton Cultural Arts Council's networking program, and 3) getting members of the arts groups to consider becoming a member of the Commission. The meeting was opened for agency presentations, and agency representatives were informed by Ms. Andrade-Wax that they would be allowed five (5) minutes to make their presentations to the Commission, and that she and Ms. Crose would give them a sign when they had one minute left. Livermore Valley Opera, Gary Sears/Jim Schmidt — Requested Funding: $7,500 — advised that this program would bring professional singers to Pleasanton classrooms to demonstrate and involve students in opera. They commented on School District funding cutbacks and the fact that this program would be a professional program to students. It is anticipated that a total of 12 classes will be offered with approximately 30 students per class. Information about the programs past success and funding was provided. Commission comments and questions asked of the representatives included: • Whether fewer classes would be offered if the amount of funding received was less than requested. • If a free student night performance was a dress rehearsal for the program. • Use of funds for salaries and payment of signer stipends. • Change of venue for dress rehearsals. • Information regarding the role of the Executive Director and what were considered administrative tasks. Pleasanton Art League (PAL), Linda Jeffery Sailors/Pat Smith — Requested Funding: $5,000 — advised that PAL was looking to do some public outreach through demonstrations of different types of art. Funds requested would be used to bring in artists and pay for their travel. PAL believes there is a big need for providing visual arts to the community. No alternative funds are being sought for this project and the funds would help with printing costs for postcards, newsletter and press releases. PAL does provide some scholarships, but does not charge for shows and services. Commission comments and questions asked of the representatives included: • Clarification of what PAL would be using the requesting funding for. • The lack of budget information provided by PAL, especially with regard to use of the Firehouse Arts Center. • The use of entry fees for Firehouse events and the 80/20 split of registration fees with the City. • PAL's membership fees and dues and what would be done if funding was not granted. • Cost per student for workshops and artists stipends for these workshops. • How PAL could take art to the people rather than the people having to go to the art. • A disproportionate amount of PAL's budget being used for artists outside of the area, and the need to use more local artists. Civic Arts Commission March 5, 2012 Page 2