From:Michael Harrington
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Revised Public Comment — Item 8: Non-Agenda Public Comment Date:Tuesday, October 13, 2026 3:40:47 PM
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Transparency in Cultural and Entertainment Programming
I would like to raise a general concern about transparency in the city’s decision-making process concerning cultural and entertainment programs and services.
In reviewing city agenda materials over time, I have noticed a recurring pattern in this area: staff reports sometimes recommend programs or services without adequately explaining how the city determined that the services are needed in the first place.
General statements about supporting youth, promoting culture, or providing entertainment do not establish that a particular service is needed or that public funding is warranted.
How was the need identified? Who expressed that need? Were residents surveyed or otherwise consulted? Who are the intended participants, and where do they live? Are comparable services already available? Is there an unmet demand?
These questions should come before deciding whether the city should provide or fund a service.
If a need has been established, the next questions concern how the city decides which services to fund, which providers to select, and what expenditures are appropriate.
Are requests for proposals issued? Are competitive bids solicited? Are alternative providers considered? What criteria are used to select particular businesses or nonprofit organizations? Could prospective providers present their proposals publicly before the council?
I cannot determine from the staff reports I have reviewed whether these evaluations occurred or what conclusions were reached. I am not assuming
that an adequate process exists, nor am I alleging that no process exists. My concern is that the process is often not shown to the public.
The city should explain how it determined that a particular cultural or entertainment service is needed before proceeding to questions about providers and expenditures.
I encourage the city to make that analysis, along with its provider-selection procedures and cost considerations, part of the public record before decisions are made.
My concern is not directed at any particular individual, organization, or program. It is about allowing residents to understand and evaluate how decisions involving public funds are reached.
Mike Harrington