City in discussion regarding new prominent act program

MILTON – Currently, the city of Milton is in discussion about a proposed program to assist in bringing prominent performing artists to perform in downtown Milton at the Imogene Theatre.  The program will provide a pool of funds for a down payment necessary to book national level acts.  The city is currently seeking grants to match the city’s investment and establish an adequate fund.

The Santa Rosa Historical Society (SRHS), owners of the Imogene Theatre, would develop a concept for an event at the facility.  Working with whomever they choose as a promoter, or possibly carrying out the event themselves, they would identify a performer and available dates.  This program is not limited to one entity.

1.    The SRHS would then makes application for a loan from the Fund via Main Street Milton’s Events Coordinator.

2.    The application must provide detailed information for the proposed event.  A contract with the artist for the date of the event must be included.

3.    The MSM events coordinator reviews and recommends the event to the city manager.

4.    If the event is not recommended for funding, the SRHS is notified and provided a written explanation of the concerns leading to that conclusion.

5.    If the event is recommended by the events coordinator, the city manager will then follow the approval process for use of the fund, as approved by city council.

6.    If approved, the city will make payment directly to the artist in accordance with the terms of their contract.

7.    The fund can pay a maximum of 50 percent of the cost of the performer to secure the show, up to the limit of the fund.

8.    All other costs, such as sound, lighting, staffing, profit, etc. are not eligible for funding under this program.

9.    Following the event, first priority for payment will be the balance of the performer’s contract.  The second priority will be the repayment of the loan from the city.  All other expenses will be paid out after these two.

10.    Funds will be repaid directly to the city to replenish the fund making them available for future events.

11.    A report to council would follow completion of every event.

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: City in discussion regarding new prominent act program