From: Camille Bernt
Sent: Monday, July 17, 2023 12:24 PM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]> Subject: West End Block Party
To: City Council of San Rafael
From: Camille Bernt & Henry Cortez
We would like to express our support for the West End Block Party project which allows amplified music on the dates suggested by the applicant. In the past, this event has brought much needed life and energy to San Rafael's otherwise dying downtown scene. Live music allows for entertainment for all ages. Our community desperately needs opportunities such as this one to come together.
We both have enjoyed watching the following for this event grow. One of us previously worked for a neighboring business, and patrons often expressed their delight in the vibrant atmosphere created by the live music and gathering down the street. Often out-of-towners stated a desire to return to San Rafael to enjoy the live music, making San Rafael's downtown stretch a destination again as it once was.
While the comments in the staff report bring up valid concerns, denying the permit for this event denies our community of spirit and joy. Rather than declining this proposal and letting the nightlife and entertainment continue to dwindle in San Rafael, we support the healthy conversations surrounding the mitigation of any potential concerns. As a previous employee of the sponsoring business, I can attest that the applicant runs a tight ship when it comes to his business and holds a deep commitment to the health of the community in which he operates and resides. Adam has consistently put forth dedicated efforts to revive the West End and foster a sense of community among its residents. We firmly believe that the approval of the West End Block Party, along with the mutually agreed-upon modifications by all parties involved, will undoubtedly benefit our community.
We appreciate your time and consideration-- please keep the music alive! Respectfully,
Camille & Henry
From: suzanne gavin whelan
Sent: Monday, July 17, 2023 10:41 AM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <[email protected]> Subject: Public Comment for City Council Meeting – MONDAY, JULY 17, 2023 Please accept my public comment regarding West End Block Party 2023. My family and I would like to see the West End public gatherings get approval for temporary street closures and amplified music.
Music brings joy and should be allowed, in a respectful manner. At a residence, individuals should keep the volume down. Business corridors, restaurant areas, and town centers are by nature busy and somewhat noisy; if music is open to the public, it should be allowed - and encouraged - by the city.
Schedule in advance and keep the hours reasonable (9 or 10 pm end time). If you live near a business corridor you accept the vibrance that comes with it both bad (possible parking issues, traffic, noise, litter) and good (walking access to food and stores, easy to meet people and build community, close to bus routes).
Outdoor concerts on 4th Street in the West End were a highlight and brought the community together during COVID. I have lived in the West End for 12 years and can hear the music from my house. If we don't figure out how to have live music and host festivals in San Rafael, our already struggling downtown will continue to decline. Part of the reason I live in this small city is to gather with people and support creative local businesses.
Thank you.
Suzanne Whelan
West End