Item No.
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: HORACIO ORTIZ, COUNCIL MEMBER
D ATE: AUGUST 12, 2025
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF A FEE WAIVER REQUEST FOR RENTAL AND LABOR COSTS FOR THE “EL GRITO de INDEPENDENCIA” SHOW
AT THE DOWNEY THEATRE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
That the City Council consider the approval of fee waivers for rental and labor costs up to the amount of $12,000, to support the “El Grito de Independencia” show at the Downey Civic Theatre on September 14, 2025. “El Grito de Independencia” is a festival presented by the Asociacion de Jalicences Unidos en Accion (AJUA).
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council:
Approve fee waivers for rental and labor costs for the “El Grito de Independencia” show to be featured at the Downey Theatre.
BACKGROUND
“El Grito de Independencia” is an annual celebration that honors Mexico’s Independence Day, which is recognized each year on September 16th. AJUA is a team of dedicated individuals whose mission is to bring Mexican cultural traditions and history through the arts, of music, cuisines, and entertainment to Southern California by partnering with local cities. Most recently AJUA partnered with the City of Pico Rivera in 2024, to host the “El Grito de Independenecia” festival in the City of Pico Rivera at Smith Park. The event was free to the public.
The festival is a vibrant celebration that commemorates Mexico’s historic independence, originally declared by Father Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. The festival typically features a rich tapestry of Mexican culture and heritage. The show often includes live performances – such as mariachi bands, folklorico dancers, and regional artists. Communities across the U.S. and Mexico host festivals with local food vendors, cultural exhibitions, car shows, and family-friendly entertainment, all designed to honor the spirit of Mexican
CONSIDERATION OF GRANTING FEE WAIVER FOR RENTAL AND LABOR COSTS FOR THE “EL GRITO DE INDEPENDENCIA” SHOW AT THE DOWNEY THEATRE AUGUST 12, 2025
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independence and bring people together. These celebrations are not only a tribute to history but also a showcase of contemporary Mexican pride and artistic expression.
ANALYSIS
Representatives from AJUA have formally approached the City of Downey to host the annual “El Grito de Independencia” festival at the Downey Theatre. AJUA is requesting the City’s support not only in the permitting of the use of the Downey Theatre as the venue for the year’s event, but also in waving the associated rental fees. They emphasize that such support would reflect the City’s commitment to cultural inclusivity and community engagement, while helping ensure the festival remains accessible to all residents. The festival is tentatively scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 14th from 5pm – 9pm at the Downey Theatre. The item was discussed at the Arts & Cultural Subcommittee meeting on July 7, 2025 and was recommended to bring before the City Council for consideration.
The proposed fee waivers would cover facility rental fees, theatre staff reimbursement, advertisements, and stage equipment. No talent fees would be paid for by the City. In the event the fee waiver is not approved, representatives of AJUA have informed the City that they would not host the festival at the theatre.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Public Engagement
FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of the recommended action to waive City fees will result in an estimated revenue decrease in the approximate amount of $12,000 in the Downey Theatre revenue account 10-3-6660.