Commission hears update on OEWD music strategy and plans commission retreat

The Entertainment Commission received an update from Executive Director Weiland on a citywide effort to develop a San Francisco music strategy in collaboration with the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) and the consultant Sound Diplomacy.

Weiland said the project will map the city's music-related assets and identify recommendations for how the city can better support local music. He said Sound Diplomacy has already led focus groups with event operators and brick-and-mortar venues and that an online survey is open to music businesses, venues, musicians and fans to gather broader feedback.

"The strategy will map the city's music related assets and will identify recommendations for ways that the city can better support local music," Weiland said. He asked commissioners to share the survey link through their channels to reach industry stakeholders.

Weiland also reviewed planning for the commission retreat on Friday, Oct. 18 (11 a.m.–4 p.m.), saying the session will include strategic planning, draft mission/vision/values work, staff updates on the Sound Diplomacy project and discussion of how the Commission can better promote entertainment and nightlife. Senior Inspector Jordan Roberts will assist with discussion about cleaning up the residential development review process.

Commissioners asked whether the strategy includes geo-mapping; Weiland confirmed that geo-mapping is part of the project. Commissioners also asked about a soundproofing grant program; Weiland said that program was approved in the current year's budget and staff are developing implementation protocols.

The director additionally notified the Commission that staff are managing an appeal of a citation tied to a one-time event permit; the appeal is scheduled for a comptroller hearing on Sept. 9 and staff will file a pre-hearing statement.