10-11-04 Parks, Arts, Recreration and Culture

Home Browse Search

Council Member Kirsits stated that he believes that originally the Department of Community and Economic Development used to run the Ethnic Festival, which was very successful. Art Beat is not only a success with our residents but also with our business owners. Mr. St. Clair noted that the late Gwen Stiver ran the Ethnic Festival originally through the early 199O's along with many volunteers. Council Member Kelly noted that Laurie Guy was present and perhaps she could comment on whether Art Beat or some thing similar could be carried out successfully. Laura Guy noted that much time and money is needed for Art Beat along with a host of sponsors. Council Member Pfeifer noted that she really like the old Ethnic Festival, and that perhaps the rides draw a certain element which was not present when church organizations and Mom and Pop groups were more involved. Council Member Coleman noted that he would like to continue the discussion on Summer in the City and that he would reschedule the presentation on the Park Master Plan. He then opened the floor to the public. Andrew Nemeth of 922 East Jefferson, South Bend, Indiana 46617 stated that the Ethnic Festival was fantastic. However its time and come and gone. More programs like Art Beat should be pursued. He also suggested investigated the Health Department Codes to see what is really necessary. Mr. Scheffineyer of 300 South St. Louis noted that he is the President of the neighborhood group where the Center in the City festival is held. He stated that the operating loss for this year's event was $113,000 and not the $22,000 referenced by the Park Superintendent. When you add in the infrastructure expenses the loss becomes$128,000 for this one-day event. He stated that he would support an event which focuses on eating like the old Ethnic Festival, but would not support a carnival. He encouraged the city to look at the car concept also. Council Member Coleman stated that this will not be the final discussion on Summer in the City,but is a good starting point. Mr. St. Clair stated that time is an issue since he needs to notify vendors in the next ten (10)days. He stated that he would share the Council's comments with the Mayor. Council President White inquired as to what was the next step and what would be the role of the Council. Mr. St. Clair stated he would talk to the Mayor, since"it is his call". Dr. Varner stated that if an additional appropriation is going to be necessary, the Council cannot be cut out of the discussions, since no additional monies were budgeted for next year. Parks, Arts,Recreation and Culture(PARC)Committee October 11,2004 Page 2