TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute a permit with Mr. Arnaud Vuillermet, an individual doing business as Kitemasters, to operate a kitesurfing concession for a term of two years. (District 3)
DISCUSSION
Mr. Arnaud Vuillermet, an individual doing business as Kitemasters, would like to continue operating a kitesurfing concession on city beaches, offering kitesurfing lessons, rentals, and repair services. Kitesurfing, also known as kiteboarding, involves using the power of a large controllable kite to propel the rider and a specialized surfboard across the water. The calm water and steady onshore winds found along Long Beach's shoreline make it an ideal location for this sport. Mr. Vuillermet currently has a permit, which will expire September 1, 2011, and is current on all permit fees.
International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO), founded in 2001, is an independent international organization founded for the purpose of promoting kiteboarding safety worldwide. Mr. Vuillermet is a Level 2 certified instructor with IKO and has taught more than 1,000 hours of kiteboarding lessons. Mr. Vuillermet also owns Kitemasters Mexico, located in La Ventana, Baja, California, where he employs three full-time instructors. He has also been featured in Kiteboarder Magazine for his contribution toward the development of safety zones along La Ventana beaches.
Kitemasters will be allowed to operate Monday through Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., year-round, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Operating hours will be extended during the summer season.
The following are major provisions of the proposed permit:
· Premises: City beaches, as shown on aerial photo (Attachment).
· Permitted Use: Operation of a kitesurfing concession, which will include lessons, rentals, and repair services.
· Term: Two years, through September 1, 2013.
· Permit Fee: Ten percent of annual gross receipts, or an annual minimum amount of $2,000, whichever is greater.
· Insurance: Kitemasters shall provide insurance coverage as determined by the City's Risk Manager.
· Kitesurfing Guidelines: Kitemasters shall comply with the City of Long Beach Kiteboarding Guidelines and shall maintain its Professional Air Sports Association or International Kiteboarding Organization certified school status throughout the term of the permit.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Richard Anthony and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on July 27, 2011.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on August 16, 2011, in order to enable the execution of the permit.
FISCAL IMPACT
Annual revenue of at least $2,000 will continue to accrue to the Tidelands Operating Fund (TF 401) in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PR). There is no job impact associated with the recommended action.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
GEORGE CHAPJIAN
DIRECTOR OF PARKS, RECREATION AND MARINE
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER