TITLE
Recommendation to increase appropriations in the General Fund Group in the City Manager Department by $2,000, offset by the First Council District one-time District Priority Funds, transferred from the Citywide Activities Department, to provide a donation to the Long Beach Blues Society; and
Decrease appropriations in the General Fund Group in the Citywide Activities Department by $2,000 to offset a transfer to the City Manager Department.
DISCUSSION
The Long Beach Blues Society (LBBS) has provided quality Blues music, as well as education and connection with underserved communities in Long Beach since 2016. Starting in 2014, the initial team worked to produce the New Blues Festival, an annual Blues festival with thousands of attendees and multiple performers. This festival has provided an opportunity for Long Beach residents to experience live Blues music as well as increased tourism from surrounding areas, showcasing Long Beach as a destination to live and enjoy live music.
In addition to the New Blues Festival, the LBBS has provided free programming for thousands in Long Beach, from bedside music performances for children staying at Miller Children’s Hospital to the Sizzling Summer Jazz Concert at Cesar Chavez Park in the First District. These programs are focused on serving youth, seniors, veterans, and underserved communities from Blues artists and others at no cost. It is appropriate for the City Council to support the continued work of the LBBS.
STATEMENT OF URGENCY:
Funding is sought as soon as possible for the event which was held April 30, 2022.
This matter was reviewed by Budget Manager Grace H. Yoon on May 11, 2022.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
MARY ZENDEJAS COUNCILWOMAN,
FIRST DISTRICT