Resolution approving a $15,000 grant to Ms. Donna M. Grey-Banks, President of Ila’s Diamonds LLC, dba F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival for the 7th Annual Fresh Book workshops and festival to be held in 2018. A total of four (4) workshops are planned throughout the year and the Book Festival is scheduled for January 19 and 20, 2018 at the Midtown Cultural and Educational Facility. The grant supersedes and terminates the prior $6,000 grant agreement which was approved by Resolution No. 16-15. Over the past six (6) years the Festival has continued to grow with additional workshops, authors, a film festival and increased usage of the entire Midtown Cultural and Educational Facility. Consequently, the City fees have increased to cover the cost of the increased usage. The $15,000 City grant shall be applied first to any unpaid portion of the City permit-related fees charged pursuant to City ordinance and regulations for the event series and festival. The balance of the grant funds shall be applied toward contracted costs incurred in conducting the event. Ms. Banks is pursuing other sponsorships to help cover the total cost of the events. The 2018 festival featuring a variety of authors and guest speakers will continue to pursue the Festival’s goal of educating the community on the value of literacy and helps the City meet the requirements of the Echo grant which was awarded to build the Midtown Cultural and Educational Facility. Funds available in the General Fund.
Recommendation: Cultural Services and Community Events Director recommends adoption of the Resolution.