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Council Approves Waiver for El Grito Event at Downey Theatre, Directs Ticket Allocation for Residents
Summary
Council members approved waiving $12,000 in theatre rental fees for a Mexican Independence Day celebration, amending the staff recommendation to require at least 350 tickets (about half the house) be allocated to Downey residents; council asked staff to confirm allocations and logistical details.
The City Council voted to approve an amended staff recommendation to waive up to $12,000 in theatre rental and labor fees for an El Grito Mexican Independence Day event at the Downey Theatre on Sept. 14, while reserving a majority of seats for city residents.
Director Chacon Decomain gave an overview to the council, noting the date was available and that a similar event previously held by the same organization had been a sold-out, free public performance. Council members raised concerns about the fiscal impact amid current budget tightening and whether the group qualifies for nonprofit fee waivers.
During discussion council members asked staff to secure a clear allocation of tickets for Downey residents. Council directed staff to reserve at least 350 tickets for local residents (approximately half the 740-seat house) before finalizing the waiver. One council member suggested inviting the mayor of Guadalajara; the council agreed to invite the mayor at her expense.
The motion to approve item 15 as amended passed with Council Member Frometa absent; the council asked staff to return with details on ticket distribution and any additional fiscal impacts to theater revenue.
