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Council increases Wild and Scenic Film Festival support to $5,000 and waives Foundry fees
Summary
The council amended a requested $2,500 sponsorship/fee waiver package to a single $5,000 support package that includes reduced facility fees for the Miners Foundry and approved a street closure; presenters said the festival draws thousands of visitors and provides local economic benefit.
The Nevada City Council amended and approved city support for the Wild and Scenic Film Festival on Nov. 12, expanding a staff‑recommended $2,500 sponsorship plus a fee waiver into a single $5,000 package that combines a monetary contribution with facility‑use concessions for the Miners Foundry.
Lon Peterson (speaker 7), presenting the item for staff, described the request from the South Yuba River Citizens League (Circle) for the 2026 festival. Eric Dunn (speaker 4), festival director, said the event brings significant visitors and programming to the area: "The festival brings in over 7,000 attendees now ... The festival now has an economic impact of over $900,000," he said, describing youth programming, field trips and a return to the Miners Foundry for screenings and headquarters.
Council discussion centered on the Foundry's revival and community access. Council member Peterson moved an amendment to convert the sponsorship and fee waiver into a single $5,000 package that would bring the city to a higher sponsorship level and reduce costs for Foundry use; the amendment was seconded and approved by roll call. Councilors also discussed affordability and asked staff to consider future reduced‑price options for economically disadvantaged attendees.
The motion passed on a roll‑call vote with all members voting yes, according to the record. Staff and festival organizers said the city would receive event passes and that the support helps ensure the festival's continued presence in Nevada City.
Next steps: staff to finalize the facility agreement and logistics for the Miners Foundry and street closure and to return any needed permit details to council.
