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Arts community urges council to keep Yucaipa Performing Arts Center open; Props AV offers to operate without subsidy
Summary
Dozens of residents, arts leaders, and local businesses told council that closing YPAC would damage Uptown’s economy and culture; Props AV representatives described a rentals‑first operating model they said would quickly make the venue self‑sustaining.
Community members and performing‑arts organizations packed the dais July 27 to plead with the Yucaipa City Council not to close the Yucaipa Performing Arts Center (YPAC).
Speakers representing small businesses, nonprofit arts groups, and event production firms described YPAC as a cultural anchor and economic driver for Uptown. Jeanette Sullivan, owner of Sullivan Party Rentals, told the council she employs 15 people and that “closing YPAC would not just affect one building — it would mean less money circulating within Yucaipa,” linking venue activity to local retail and dining revenue.
Props AV owner Brady Westbrook and multiple Props AV staff offered a transition plan that would shift YPAC from city‑produced events to a rentals‑first business model focused on private bookings, turnkey packages, and preferred vendor relationships. Westbrook told the council, “We should only spend what we make… I’m 100% confident that Props AV can operate this facility and, to profitability.” Other speakers — including arts directors and youth program leaders — warned that transferring operations to an unfamiliar third party could price local nonprofits out of the venue.
The council’s eventual amendment to the budget keeps the facility open during negotiations and directs staff to return with an agreement that reimburses the city if operator commitments are not met. The council also emphasized the need to protect existing staff, honor contracted events, and balance any operator deal with liability and labor rules.
Next steps: staff will negotiate an operating agreement with Props AV or another operator and return to the council for approval; community groups will continue to press for protections for nonprofits and school programs using the theater.
