CCMIN03202018 - Laserfiche WebLink

screening committee voted unanimously to recommend TVRT and the Civic Arts Commission voted 5 — 2 to recommend TVRT for the City of Pleasanton. The key factors important to the screening committee and Commission's decision to select TVRT were the number of years of experience, the quality and level of productions, strong and loyal fan base, desire to not use City facilities for rehearsal space, the ability to build sets off-site, and the cost-effectiveness of the proposal. TVRT is proposing two musical productions running for 8 to 9 shows, evening and matinee performances, diversified pricing, and a commitment to hire local talent. Mayor Thorne inquired whether the contract should include three productions, rather than two. Staff responded the organization already has a local production obligation in the area and can only commit at this time to two shows. The current offer is only a one-year proposal and would allow other companies to come in and use the rental option to produce other performances. Mayor Thorne stated that TVRT used to operate as Pleasanton Playhouse and inquired as to why the left Pleasanton. City Manager Fialho noted representatives are in the audience from Pleasanton Playhouse and could respond, however, he noted the Amador Playhouse was closed during the recession and that may have been one of the reasons. TVRT is a local business and their operations are located in the Valley Business Park. Councilmember Brown inquired as to the other venues utilized by TVRT, including the Bankhead. Staff spoke with Bankhead, however, not in reference to their relationship with TVRT specifically. Councilmember Brown wanted to confirm the proposed contract would not impact the Bankhead venue, and TVRT would not be "spread too thin" to have performances at both sites. Councilmember Brown expressed interest in a verbal commitment from TVRT to provide three performances and to affirm their site location after their 2020 tenancy. Councilmember Pentin affirmed the current proposed contract is for two performances this year, as TVRT is already committed in the area for another performance. He inquired whether a future contract would be for three performances. City Manager Fialho stated it was likely budgetary cost would determine the viability of TVRT's ability to provide three performances. Councilmember Pentin inquired as to the ability of TVRT to bring in "equity" actors. Staff stated TVRT can use "equity" actors during certain shows. Staff does not feel it will impact the level of production the City will receive. Councilmember Pentin inquired why TVRT did not pursue the RFP. Staff responded TVRT indicated timing and budgetary matters were concerns at the time for the organization. Opening of the RFQ process changed the opportunity for some of the organizations to participate in the process. Mayor Thorne opened public comment. Donna Bratton-Kearns spoke as a supporter of PCRT. She noted the years of experience of the two companies was not important to her, as the levels of performances provided by PCRT have been outstanding at the Firehouse Theatre. She understands the process for sharing the opportunity, however, she expressed concern regarding uprooting PCRT from the Firehouse venue as a significant mistake for the City, the community, and the merchants. She requested reconsideration of staff's recommendation of TVRT. Margie Sherratt spoke as a member of PCRT and requested the City Council take a "no" vote and restart the big process. She perceived confusion by the Commission when the item was presented to them for approval. She expressed concern as PCRT has an excellent reputation and inquired when PCRT fell out of favor with the City. She believes the process was not organized, clear, or open and requested it be reopened. City Council Minutes Page 6 of 12 March 20, 2018