HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - May 13, 2008LODI CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
WITH THE LODI ARTS COMMISSION
HUTCHINS STREET SQUARE, 125 S. HUTCHINS STREET
TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2008
A. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL
The Special Joint City Council meeting with the Lodi Arts Commission of May 13, 2008, was called
to order at 5:30 p.m.
Present: Council Members — Hansen, Hitchcock, Johnson, and Mayor Mounce
Absent: Council Members — Katzakian
Present: Lodi Arts Commissioners — Bader, Burgess, Carey, Walth, and Chairperson Lawson
Absent: Lodi Arts Commissioners — Himle
Also Present: City Manager King, Deputy City Attorney Magdich, and Deputy City Clerk Perrin
B. TOPIC(S)
Attendees participated in an interactive "Memories in the Making" scrap book project, during which
information was provided on the various Lodi Arts Commission events and programs. Two members
of Mr. Tan's children's chorus performed songs for the group, and a special presentation was made
by Jessica Ram, one of 19 recipients of the scholarships for low-income students, on her
experience with and appreciation for the program.
Chairperson Margie Lawson reviewed the mission statement of the Lodi Arts Commission, and
Donna Phillips and Sue Sarale provided an overview of the Lodi Arts Project Fund, which is the
fundraising arm of the Commission. Ms. Lawson stated that her main goal this year is to rebuild
the Commission to full capacity as there have been a significant number of vacancies recently.
Community Center Director Jim Rodems recognized the Lodi Arts Commission and Lodi Arts
Project Fund for its continued hard work and efforts, despite being undermanned, and stated he was
looking forward to merging the registration programs for Hutchins Street Square and Parks and
Recreation, which would provide a new revenue stream and bring about added partnerships. Mr.
Rodems further presented information on the Commission's strategic planning session, First Friday
Art Hop, first collaborative art show, Christmas tree auction, arts directory, the purchase of new art
for the City of Lodi, and the Art on the Square program.
Council Member Hitchcock stated that art, wine, and grape growing are an integral part of Lodi's
efforts to increase tourism and she expressed support for the Commission's role in this endeavor.
Mayor Pro Tempore Hansen emphasized the accomplishments over the last five years including the
murals, the Wall Dog event, and the two new art pieces. He believed Council has been supportive
of the Commission, even during tough budget times, and he looks forward to seeing further Arts
Commission accomplishments over the next five years.
Council Member Johnson questioned how the low-income scholarship program works and what can
be done to encourage participation and donations, to which Events Coordinator Diane Amaral
responded that the program is funded by the Lodi Arts Project Fund and is advertised in the arts
directory, mentioned by the instructors, and is an option through United Way. She agreed that a
greater effort could be made to encourage more donations, and Mr. Johnson suggested speaking to
local service clubs.
Linda Hansen thanked the Lodi Arts Commission and Lodi Arts Project Fund for the mural on the
Animal Shelter building and stated she believed this would increase pet adoptions.
Donna Phillips stated that her goal is to have an arts gallery at Hutchins Street Square and to
increase the inventory of art work.
C. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:18 p.m.
ATTEST:
Jennifer M. Perrin, Deputy City Clerk