Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
City hires Sound Diplomacy to craft Long Beach entertainment strategic plan
Loading...
Summary
The council approved a contract with Sound Diplomacy to develop an entertainment strategic plan focused on policies, programs, placemaking and partnerships to grow Long Beach’s creative economy in advance of major events such as the 2028 Games.
The Long Beach City Council on April 14 authorized a contract with Sound Diplomacy not to exceed $137,500 to develop an entertainment strategic plan aimed at growing the city’s music and creative economy.
Eric Romero, waterfront development manager, told the council the consultant will engage businesses, cultural groups, venue operators, musicians, promoters and residents; study three to four peer cities; map existing venues and underused spaces; and recommend policy and permitting improvements, program ideas, placemaking initiatives and partnership strategies.
“We want to make sure the process includes diverse voices so we capture a wide range of perspectives,” Romero said. Staff said the consultant’s final report will include a phased implementation plan, timelines, responsible parties and estimated costs for recommended programs.
Councilmembers praised the initiative as a way to diversify the city’s economy and prepare for increased visitation ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Councilmember Zendejas and others said they want the outreach and surveys to include non-English languages commonly spoken in Long Beach.
The contract was approved by council vote; staff will return results and recommendations to be considered for future budgets and work plans.
