By Robert J. Hansen | OBSERVER Staff Writer
Business owners and entrepreneurs met with city employees Oct. 2 at a downtown summit to explore ways to boost Sacramento’s nightlife and entertainment.
The event provided a chance for business owners, who often find the city difficult to work with, to connect with staff responsible for processing permits and entertainment licenses.
One key discussion point was the introduction of a temporary entertainment permit, aimed at helping smaller venues host live entertainment. City staff indicated the permit could be available by the year’s end.
Tina Lee-Vogt, the city’s nighttime economy manager, explained that the temporary permit, which could last up to two years, would be more affordable than standard entertainment permits used by larger venues such as Harlow’s and Ace of Spades.
“It would offer more opportunities for musicians and artists to perform,” Lee-Vogt said.
She also emphasized the city’s role in reducing business costs by helping streamline permitting and licensing for special events and cutting through red tape.
“If you’re trying to open a business and face delays, that costs you money. So, if we can simplify the process, help you understand it, and maybe even connect you with additional resources, that’s a win,” Lee-Vogt said.
Megan Van Voorhis, director of convention and cultural services, praised the event for its genuine discussions and engagement.
“We can’t stay silent on tough issues. If we don’t talk about them, we can’t move forward,” Van Voorhis told The OBSERVER.
Nightlife, arts, and culture span a wide range of local businesses, artists, musicians, and regulatory authorities, all contributing to economic development.
Regulatory authorities oversee licenses, safety standards, and public resources. However, regulations governing live music, currently categorized with bar and nightclub restrictions, limit the growth of local music venues and arts events that include live performances.
Chaez Boswell, owner of Rink Studios and producer of the Sacramento Sol Blume music festival, shares his experience working with the city to enhance music and entertainment at an Oct. 2 event. Fred Greaves, SOLVING SACRAMENTO
City and business leaders aim to change that.
Jim Cornett, owner of Harlow’s nightclub, noted that Sacramento is easier to work with than San Francisco.
“In San Francisco, no one listened to our complaints,” Cornett told the crowd. “Sacramento listens.”
He acknowledged, though, that running a business is tough, regardless of city support.
“It’s never easy to operate,” Cornett said.
Chaez Boswell, owner of Rink Studios and a producer of the Sacramento Sol Blume music festival, commended the city for often supporting creative special event promoters.
Mayor Darrell Steinberg proposed streamlining permits for events, entertainment licenses, films, pop-ups, and other creative activities during last year’s State of the City address.
“If we want to be a city that nurtures a creative economy and insists on genuine equity, our regulatory environment must reflect that,” Steinberg said.
At the time, he noted that regulatory barriers and confusion around permitting were top concerns.
According to the Sacramento Music Census, released Aug. 21, 2023, 86% of local musicians report four or fewer monthly opportunities to perform.
City officials hope the temporary permitting procedure and associated costs will be available to business owners by the end of the year.
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