Item No. 23.
TO:HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM:OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
BY:JASON CHACON, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION
DATE:JUNE 23, 2026
SUBJECT:APPROVAL OF TALENT FEES & 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 and talent fees up to $10,000 to support the “El Grito de Independencia” show at the Downey Civic Theatre on September 11, 2026. “El Grito de Independencia” is presented by the Asociacion de Jalicences Unidos en Accion (AJUA).
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council:
Approve fee waivers up to $12,000 for rental and labor costs for the "El Grito de Independencia" show at the Downey Theatre and up to $10,000 for talent fees for performance groups.
BACKGROUND
“El Grito de Independencia” is a show presented by the Asociacion de Jalicences Unidos en Accion (AJUA). “El Grito de Independencia” is an annual celebration that honors Mexico’s Independence Day, which is recognized each year on September 16. AJUA is a team of dedicated individuals whose mission is to bring Mexican cultural traditions through the arts, music, cuisines, and entertainment to Southern California. The team has worked tirelessly to honor the traditions of Mexico through collaboration and partnerships with local cities to bring the celebration and continue to immerse communities with Mexico’s rich history. Most recently AJUA partnered with the City of Santa Fe Springs in 2025, to host the “El Grito de Independenecia” festival. 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 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 in permitting the use of the Downey Theatre and waving the associated rental and labor fees up to $12,000. They are also requesting assistance for $10,000 in talent fees for local and international performance groups that would be a part of the event. 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 11, from 5 pm - 9 pm, at the Downey Theatre.
The proposed fee waivers would cover facility rental fees, theatre staff reimbursement, advertisements, and stage equipment. In the event the fee waiver is not approved, representatives of AJUA have informed the City that they would not be able to 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.
Approval of the recommended action to provide $10,000 in talent fees will result in an appropriation of $10,000 from General Fund reserve account to Parks & Recreation account 10-4-4320-0585 operating budget for Fiscal Year 25-26.