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Marquee access dispute: Sterling cites investment; nonprofit seeks guaranteed slots
Summary
Sterling argued it invested in and repaired the city marquee and asked to retain primary scheduling control; the OPAC nonprofit said it has been repeatedly denied and asked for guaranteed access for signature public‑benefit events. The committee asked staff to codify clear, fair marquee policy and procedures in the contract exhibits.
The committee discussed the PAC digital marquee (800 Hopson Way) and competing claims over scheduling authority. Staff explained Sterling previously managed marquee scheduling and that, under the proposed dual operator model, Sterling would retain primary management but that the OPEC nonprofit should have a defined process and guaranteed opportunity to request marquee space for city‑approved signature events.
OPEC chair Gary Davis said nonprofit requests to post community events have repeatedly been denied in practice even when the nonprofit made timely requests; he asked the committee to guarantee the nonprofit some access under the policy. Lance said he spent tens of thousands on marquee repair and conversion and that he has been restricted from advertising on some other city billboard contracts; he argued that his investment should be recognized. Staff said ARPA reimbursed Sterling $41,255 toward marquee repairs and that the marquee policy must comply with zoning (no off‑site commercial advertising) and free‑speech constraints.
Committee members asked staff to add clearer, defined language so the nonprofit has a reliable pathway and some guaranteed slots for signature public‑benefit events, while recognizing Sterling's investments and the need to comply with legal constraints. Staff will draft a marquee policy exhibit clarifying scheduling, priority and the administrative request process.
