Title
Downtown Plaza Rental Fee (NB)
On-site staffing for all permitted events on the Downtown Plaza is proposed to provide an increased level of cleanliness and site security.
Explanation
During a three-month trial period, a Parks maintenance worker and a monitor from Cultural Affairs have staffed every permitted event taking place on the Downtown Plaza. It is felt that this configuration has significantly improved the level of service and security to those who have rented and attended events at the Downtown Plaza. This program is similar to the Park "Ambassadors" that are found in other communities; however, the proposed program is a part-time program for permitted events only. Prior to implementation of this "pilot project" a staff person basically met the group at the Plaza at the beginning of their event but did not remain to provide assistance throughout the event.
With the increased use of the Downtown Plaza by renters and the general public in the past year, the restrooms, performance stage and Plaza areas in general, require more concentrated attention during events than has previously been provided. Care and upkeep of the Plaza for each permitted event will include parks' maintenance staff sweeping off the stage area, cleaning the restrooms, and picking up litter and trash removal before, during, and after an event. The Cultural Affairs Monitor will oversee the work of the Parks maintenance staff and any sound and lights technician(s), provide customer service as needed to both the renter and general public, assure compliance with city policies and ordinances and handle any disruptions or emergencies by calling for assistance from Gainesville Police Department or other City services as needed.
Providing on site staff will require an increase to the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department's personnel budget. To recover these costs, it is requested that the City Commission authorize an increase to the current Plaza P...
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