The Tulare City Council convened on December 17, 2024, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on the recent concert series held at the newly constructed venue. The meeting began with a presentation by Todd Spielman from Spade Entertainment, who provided a recap of the 2024 concert series.

Spielman reported that three concerts were successfully held in October and November, despite the venue still being under construction. He noted that the concerts exceeded expectations, receiving positive feedback from both attendees and artists. Notably, country artist Clay Walker praised the venue, calling it the best he had played in the Valley. The concerts attracted attendees from ten states and 162 cities, indicating a strong regional interest.

The council discussed the marketing strategies employed for the concert series, which included extensive social media promotion and partnerships with local radio stations. Spielman highlighted the economic impact of the events, mentioning that local hotels experienced increased bookings and businesses reported a surge in patrons on concert nights.

Feedback from local business owners was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the concerts and the associated increase in foot traffic. Some businesses requested that future concerts end earlier to accommodate their closing times, a suggestion the council agreed to consider.

Looking ahead, Spielman indicated plans for a more extensive concert schedule in 2025, aiming for at least 12 shows and additional events, including food festivals. The council expressed optimism about the venue's potential and the positive community response, emphasizing the collaborative effort between city staff and Spade Entertainment.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the success of the concert series and the anticipated growth of events at the venue, with plans for further enhancements and community engagement in the coming year. The council looks forward to confirming dates and continuing to support local businesses through these initiatives.