January 9, 2013

 

Commissioner Chew, Chair, called the meeting to order at 2:36 p.m.

1. Roll Call
Commissioners Present:
Greg Chew, Chair
John Calloway
Amy Chuang

Commissioners Absent:
Jessica Silverman

Staff present: Arts Commission Deputy Director Rebekah Krell, Street Artists Program Director Howard Lazar, Street Artists Program Assistant Alyssa Licouris

Program Director Howard Lazar wished everyone a happy and healthy new year. He also welcomed interpreter Arturo Garcia.

Commissioner Chew welcomed Deputy Director Rebekah Krell.

2. Discussion. Street Artists Program Director’s Report.

Program Director Lazar reported on the following:

J-9 space: He reported that at an October 4 meeting with Wharf property merchants David Berbey and Nick Hoppe, Port Property Manager Rip Malloy, street artists David Campos, Drew Flores, Brian Hopper, Commissioner Chew and Commissioner Collins, it was decided to withdraw the proposed request for former space J-9 to be redesignated on the corner of Jefferson Street at Leavenworth Street since the anticipated crowd of customers would be too close in proximity of the store’s entrance.

Port Commission meeting: Program Director Lazar accompanied a group of street artists to a full Port Commission meeting on December 12. He stated that Tad Sky, John Tunui, Stephen Phillips, Debra King, Kathy Hallinan, Larry Rosenbloom, and Brian Hopper spoke under public comment asking that their spaces be returned to them upon completion of Jefferson Street construction. He said that the three Port Commissioners attending the meeting stated that street artist spaces should be factored into the completed street.

Jefferson Street Reconstruction Project: He explained that the construction started on January 2 and that he received both an e-mail and a formal letter from the Port stating that the project “will require all street artists along Jefferson Street between Jones and Hyde streets to be relocated for the duration of construction which is estimated approximately six months”. He said he forwarded the message to all of the street artists in the Program along with his own cover message telling them that they weren’t allowed to use any Jefferson Street spaces during the construction period. He explained that he and Arts Commission Deputy Director Krell represented the artists’ concerns to Port senior management. He said the letter from the Port is their official position regarding temporary relocation of street artist spaces for the period of the reconstruction. He noted that, as a peer policy-making body of the Port, the Arts Commission can represent concerns of its licensing program constituents as have been done but the Commission is not able to advocate to policy makers for a change in Port positions. He said if the Port is willing to reconsider relocating spaces during reconstruction, Arts Commission staff would certainly work with all parties to facilitate the process as he himself has attempted to do prior to the Port’s letter. He added that the Commission staff will continue their dialogue with the Port to ensure permanent spaces for street artists after reconstruction.

A member of the public made a request for all private conversations to be taken outside in order to hear the meeting.

Commissioner Chew stated that an interpreter was present. Program Director Lazar further explained that the man was brought to be a simultaneous interpreter for a Spanish speaking person for a case that would be heard.

The member of the public continued to ask if the interpreter was talking about the case or about the Program Director’s report.

Commissioner Chew again acknowledged the interpreter who would be interpreting in Spanish for all items. He thanked the member of the public for their comment.

6 Spaces on Market Street: Program Director Lazar reported that a resolution was submitted to the Board of Supervisors requesting permanent designation of 6 spaces on Market Street, Spear to Steuart streets, which had been designated as temporary spaces for the artists.

Commissioner Chew commented that it was unfortunate about the Jefferson Street construction. He commented that at least it was occurring during a slow season after the holidays. He said that the Arts Commission will continue dialogue to resolve the issue.

Program Director Lazar stated that the construction was supposed to happen in November before the holidays but did not occur until now.

Commissioner Chew called for public comment. There was no public comment.

3. Action. Hearing and possible motion to authorize Program Director to request Board of Supervisors for permanent designation of five (5) street artist selling spaces on Market Street, north side, between Spear and Steuart streets.

Program Director Lazar described the area in which the 5 new spaces would be located. He said he intended to take further measurements of the sidewalk but presented a map showing the general area of the proposed spaces in relation to the existing spaces. He said John Tunui, elected Market Manager, would give details on the proposal. He noted that if the Commissioners voted to go to the Board of Supervisors with the proposal, a resolution would need to exempt the spaces from the Police Code regarding their proximity to doorways since spaces cannot be within 10 feet of the outer edge of a doorway. He commented that Supervisors have exempted spaces from certain regulations in the past. He noted that the sidewalk is very wide being at least 40 feet, and it would be sufficient to maintain the required 8 foot pedestrian passageway for a space.

Street Artist Market Manager John Tunui spoke about the spaces being a “gift” from the Hyatt because the street artists pushed the Occupy SF encampment back to contain them to the bocce courts and also have helped to keep loud musicians and drummers away from the hotel. He said nothing official had been done but now the artists were in a position to ask to make the spaces official by going to the Board of Supervisors to grant them as permanent spaces.

Program Director Lazar asked Mr. Tunui about the opposite doorways of the Hyatt and if he had discussed this issue with the hotel representative.

Mr. Tunui responded that one doorway leads to a convention room that can hold up to 2,000 occupants which is why the spaces were never made official. He said it was an understanding the artists had with the hotel and to inform the artists when to not set up. He noted that this is a different situation now and a tricky situation and that the artists were doing fine with the previous understanding. He said he’s a little worried about the risk of not being able to sell there at all and asked the Commissioners to consider the issue.

Commissioner Chew commented that there appeared to be an agreement with the hotel. He noted that Market Street is the “Champs-Élysées” of San Francisco since the sidewalk is 40 feet wide.

Program Director Lazar expressed the possibility of adding a provision into the wording of the legislation about not using the spaces if the hotel hosts a large event. He stated that there is precedent set by a similar resolution which was approved for the “Mini Plaza” at Castro, Market and 17th streets which was fostered by the Castro Community group. He explained that the group succeeded in including a provision to not have street artists sell at that location during their big events such as the Castro Street Fair.

Commissioner Calloway questioned how that could be monitored with respect to the current proposed spaces. Program Director Lazar said artists at Justin Herman Plaza are alerted through Market Manager John. He explained that Recreation and Park alerts both John and himself for upcoming events and many times event organizers meet with John in advance to figure out details. He said that John does a “fine job” and he himself is kept in the loop as the Arts Commission representative. He said he thinks it could work the same way for the proposed 5 spaces. He was concerned over the possibility of an emergency at the hotel and street artist displays possibly impeding a crowd of fleeing people. He confirmed with John’s help that the sidewalk is about 43 feet.

The Commissioners discussed the provision suggested by Program Director Lazar. Commissioner Calloway suggested specifying a certain number of people at the hotel event so there would be some kind of procedure set in place. The Commissioners and Program Director Lazar discussed how to word the provision. Program Director Lazar Howard stated that he wanted to talk to the fire marshal but asked that the proposal move forward. Commissioners, Program Director Lazar and Deputy Director Krell expressed how specific they needed to be when wording the provision.

Motion: Motion to authorize the Program Director to request the Board of Supervisors for permanent designation of five (5) street artist selling spaces on Market Street, north side, between Spear and Steuart streets with a provision for artists not to use the spaces during large events.
Moved: Chew, Chuang.

Public Comment:

Street Artist Paula Datesh said she wanted to make the Commissioners aware of a verbal agreement that John Tunui made with an illegal vendor named Marc Harrison Mitchell. She said that he’s an unlicensed vendor who has been selling sunglasses, scarves and hats for 30 years. She said she set up in a legal space last week and Mitchell was set up next to her. She said she went to talk to John and he screamed that she was disruptive to his business and that he didn’t want to deal with it. She said she talked to Program Director Lazar on the phone who was inept and then she called the police. She said the next morning she asked John what the verbal agreement was with the illegal vendor. She said he said it was a street artist. She said, from her recollection, he sold 30 years ago and left the program when he was going to be called in for a hearing about tie dyed. She suggested that if you enter into verbal agreement that it be made known to all. She said she went to 850 Bryant Street’s traffic section. She noted that selling without a permit is an infraction. She said she asked them to look up his name and he had a history and she wanted to make Commissioners aware of it.

Street Artist Kathy Hallinan asked if this issue was tied into the Clark brothers asking about the temporary spaces on Market Street that were discussed on the artists’ email tree. Program Director Lazar confirmed that this was true. Ms. Hallinan wanted to put on record that when the Clark brothers found out about this issue, they asked a question about these spaces. She said that they were “taken down” on the artists’ email tree for asking that question. She said she felt it was unfair because they have the right to ask that question. She said the artists had just lost 5 weekend spaces on Jefferson Street. She explained that the Clark brothers hadn’t done it to interrupt anything but that a “lynch mob conversation” started to blame the Clark brothers. She said they were looking towards having other additional weekend only spaces and that it does tie into the 5 rope wall spaces [Jefferson Street] that were lost that had been a “gift”. She said these were two different situations. She said that the Wharf artists need to know the workings of the Plaza and that this should be a Sunshine operation so they can see what’s going on. She said that’s a background to this item. She said the Clark brothers asked a question, people were angry when they shouldn’t have been, and that the artists also lost 5 spaces at Wharf. She also commented that, with construction, there probably won’t be any more room for those 5 spaces.

Ray Hartz, Director of San Francisco Open Government, stated that he identified himself because he chose to. He stated that no member of the public is required to identify themself during public comment or to submit a name card. He explained that it should be clear that if they ask people to identify themselves, then they can choose not to do so. He said that this item is a good example of why he attends meeting since Mr. Lazar’s rush of this item was inappropriate. He said he agreed with Commissioners to continue the item. He explained that having public documents ready and on the website is so people like himself and others who want to attend can see the wording of the language that’s going to go to the Board of Supervisors. He said that pushing it forward and making up something vague is contrary to the purposes of a public meeting. He said that if Mr. Lazar wanted to move it forward, he could have brought an example they used in the Castro Street agreement and then Commissioners could have modified that language instead of quickly putting something together by arguing and then settling it later on. He said the purpose of the documents is so members attending the meeting can make meaningful public comment by giving input for example about certain specifications. He further commented that if [John] isn’t available because of an emergency, street artists wouldn’t be notified appropriately. He stated that this should be the responsibility of the Street Artists Committee to deal with street artists and give fair notification when they aren’t permitted to use spaces which they’ve been allotted to them for use.

John Tunui requested to speak.

Mr. Hartz reminded the Commissioners that a presenter can’t speak under general public comment since he already had plenty of time to speak during his presentation.

Program Director Lazar clarified that he was the presenter of the item.

Commissioner Calloway said the meeting was getting out of order and that it was being directed by the public. He said he wanted to discuss the point that John wanted to express but it shouldn’t turn into public discussion about protocol. He said it’s up to the Chair to make a decision.

Commissioner Chew closed public comment.

Deputy Director Krell stated that the Commissioners could ask questions.

Commissioner Calloway asked Mr. Tunui what he was going to say.

John Tunui said that Ms. Datesh said he gave someone without a license authority to sell at the Plaza. He said it’s serious and wants to address it. He said he never gave the person permission. He said that the man is unlicensed as was Ms. Datesh who was selling in the artists’ spaces for 4 months without a license. He said he asked them to move away from selling in the Plaza.

The motion was unanimously approved.

4. Action. Hearing and possible motion to approve re-issuance of former certificate number (#3629) to street artist Tanya Key (currently #7885).

Program Director Lazar explained that Tanya Key left the program, returned, and received the next available certificate number on the list. He stated that a precedent has been set for street artists who request their previous numbers to give their numbers back to them. He recommended giving Ms. Key her previous number.

Motion: Motion to approve re-issuance of former certificate number (#3629) to street artist Tanya Key (currently #7885).
Moved: Chuang, Calloway.

Commissioner Chew called for public comment. There was no public comment.

The motion was unanimously approved.

5. Action. Hearing and possible motion to approve Program Director’s recommendation of denial of renewal of certificate of the following certificate-holder for allegedly selling items not of his own creation and not certified by the Advisory Committee: commercially manufactured blown glass pipes & animals.

Juan Manuel Alvarez – Certificate #7844

Program Director Lazar confirmed from Commissioner Calloway’s question that Mr. Alvarez had been in front of the Committee before but for a previous incident.

Program Director Lazar explained Mr. Alvarez was approved to sell glass and clay resin pipes and presented photos of Mr. Alvarez’s screening of wares. The Advisory Committee determined that the blown glass pipes were significantly altered by Mr. Alvarez with the addition of the resin clay. But on February 22, 2012, a Street Artists Committee hearing was conducted and the Commissioners determined that he was selling merchandise that had not been approved by the Committee, and, as a result, he received a 30 day suspension of his license.

Then, last November the Advisory Committee reported that Mr. Alvarez was selling unadorned glass pipes. Program Assistant Licouris and Program Director Lazar observed his display and took pictures of his pipes and observed that no clay resin had been added to them.

On December 7 and December 14, Program Director Lazar found him selling blown glass pipes and glass animals and he took photos of these. As a result, a notice of intent to recommend denial of his certificate and a notice to appear today were sent to him.

On December 21 in a meeting with the Program staff, Alvarez promised to immediately stop selling items he’s not approved to sell. Since then, on December 24 and January 4, Program Director Lazar, on his inspection rounds, observed him selling only his approved items.

Commissioner Calloway confirmed that it’s a different incident from the one of last year. Program Director Lazar said it’s the same type of offense.

Commissioner Chew stated that it appeared in good faith that the artist came to meet with Program Director Lazar.

Mr. Alvarez explained that he didn’t have time to come in for a screening and make new items so he continued selling what he had. He did not want to sell the glass pipes anymore because it has become a problem. He doesn’t have them on at his table anymore. He explained that he made an appointment for a screening for jewelry and that he’s sorry.

From Commissioners Chew’s question, Mr. Alvarez responded that he had several pieces on his display but now he only has 10 that include the resin.

Commissioner Calloway asked if he knew the pipes were not approved. Mr. Alvarez responded that he knew what he was selling wasn’t approved.

Program Director Lazar confirmed that Mr. Alvarez’s license expires on April 16.

Commissioner Chew suggested a suspension.

Commissioner Calloway said it doesn’t excuse him for selling items he wasn’t allowed to sell, and asked why Mr. Alvarez didn’t screen the items.

Mr. Alvarez said he didn’t know he had to bring the items to get approved.

Program Director Lazar noted that Juan Manuel Alvarez has gone through other screenings to get new items approved.

Motion: Motion to find Mr. Alvarez in violation of selling items not of his own creation.
Moved: Calloway, Chuang.

Public Comment:

Street Artist Paula Datesh stated that she spoke with Victor Pacheco of the Board of Permit Appeals over her own personal issues when he said to her that a man selling pipes asked him to translate a warning and that Victor explained it to him. She said it’s a second instance he was explained to. She also stated that an incident took place on December 24 where there are 6 places in front of Walgreens on Market Street for the holiday. She said she had a lottery ticket and there were 8 people in the space, and the BID came along with a map. She said she had an issue when 8 people have a lottery space and Mr. Alvarez was one of those people. She said that he usually comes up behind her at the Embarcadero when she’s with customers and he screams behind her. She screamed at him “so many times”, she said.

The motion was unanimously approved.

Commissioner Calloway commented that Mr. Alvarez was playing like he doesn’t know the rules. Nevertheless, the Commissioner did not want him to lose his license. He told Mr. Alvarez that he was trying the patience of the committee and such incidents should not happen again. He suggested a longer, more aggressive suspension of 45 days and explained his reasoning.

Commissioner Chuang agreed with the length of the proposed suspension.

Program Director Lazar explained the process of the commencement of a suspension period.

Motion: Motion to suspend the certificate of Juan Manuel Alvarez for a period of 45 days.
Moved: Calloway, Chuang.

Commissioner Chew called for public comment. There was no public comment.

Commissioner Chew asked Mr. Alvarez if he understood the procedures, and he responded that he did.

The motion was unanimously approved.

Commissioner Calloway warned Mr. Alvarez that this is his second violation. He asked him to understand the rules and regulations because next time, if there were to be a future similar incident, the penalty would be more severe.

Program Director Lazar answered Mr. Alvarez’s question by letting him know that he could seek approval for a new item at a screening during his certificate suspension but he could not sell anything until after the suspension period.

6. Action. Hearing and possible motion to approve authorization of Street Artists Program Director to contract with City-approved vendors for jobs not exceeding $1,000 in painting and re-painting markings of street artist sales spaces subject to applicable City contracting provisions, certification of funds by the Controller’s office, and in consultation with the City Attorney’s office.

Program Director Lazar explained that previous full Arts Commission agenda items have included paying street artists to work with him to paint or repaint spaces on the sidewalks for $200-300 plus material costs. He said he chose street artists for many years because they know where the spaces are located. He said he measures locations for new spaces and shows them to the artists who would paint them. He noted that this year the two approved street artists did a great job repainting the Downtown area and the Downtown 60 winter holiday spaces. He said that senior management and he agree that approval of this duty doesn’t need to be on the Arts Commission agendas as long as he uses City-approved vendors.

Commissioner Chew asked if this would streamline the payment process, and Program Director Lazar replied that it would and that it is not necessary to be on full Arts Commission agendas.

Commissioner Calloway confirmed with Program Director Lazar that all such payments would be under $1,000 and that this process would help expedite the payments. He also asked how he chose vendors. Program Director Lazar stated that he chooses street artists and works with them to monitor the quality of their work. He said, prior to the two current vendors, he worked with street artist Mario Hernandez for many years.

Commissioner Chew asked about the painting process. Program Director Lazar replied that the vendor follows the Program Director’s guidelines for the locations of the spaces. He said he himself marks it if it’s a brand new space based on measurements in accordance with on public safety regulations. He explained that the painter has number stencils and brackets to mark the spaces.

Program Director Lazar confirmed from Commissioner Calloway’s question that it would be the same process as before.

Program Director Lazar explained that assignments can include painting all Downtown spaces or repainting Fisherman’s Wharf spaces.

Motion: Motion to approve authorization of Street Artists Program Director to contract with City-approved vendors for jobs not exceeding $1,000 in painting and re-painting markings of street artist sales spaces subject to applicable City contracting provisions, certification of funds by the Controller’s office, and in consultation with the City Attorney’s office.
Moved: Calloway, Chuang.

Public Comment:

Street Artist Paula Datesh stated that this morning at 9 a.m. she passed the top of the Embarcadero BART to work. She said she noticed “David” and another guy painting with stencils but it didn’t have markings or chalk or previous markings. She said she asked if it was new spaces because of construction around the cable car and he replied that Howard told them to do it. She told the Commissioners that they “haven’t even approved the thing, it’s not the description that was described to you, and it’s something entirely different.”

The motion was unanimously passed.

7. Action. Hearing and possible motion to rescind Arts Commission Resolution No. 65-89-228 (Granting Priority in Issuance of New Certificates to Former Certificate Holders), adopted June 5, 1989, and to adopt a new resolution regarding Priority in Issuance of New Certificates to Former Certificate Holders in order to authorize the Street Artists Program Director on behalf of the Executive Director of the Arts Commission (the “Director of Cultural Affairs”) to approve requests by former certificate-holders whose certificates have been expired for no longer than two (2) years, for issuance of new certificate with waiver of re-examination of their wares providing that such artists sell only the same items for which they were previously screened and issued a certificate and who have demonstrated ongoing compliance with the Street Artists Ordinance and corresponding regulations for the past 3 consecutive years.

Program Director Lazar explained that this item is regarding the motion under Commissioners Chew’s monthly Program Report listing names for priority issuance for approval by the full Arts Commission. He explained that these are artists who want to come back to the program and have already been screened. He said these artists intend to sell only items that they’ve been previously screened to sell. He explained that the full Arts Commission approves them as a matter of form. He stated that artists are never recommended if they’ve had ongoing violations. He explained that this motion would eliminate the step to the Arts Commission. He described that, if this motion were approved, a former street artist would be able to come into the office, pay the application fee, but wouldn’t have to be rescreened unless they’ve been out of the program for over 2 years. He stated that he, as Program Director, would have the authority to consult with the Executive Director or the Deputy Director to re-license the artist. The artist would not have to wait a month for the next Arts Commission meeting.

Commissioner Calloway verified with Program Director Lazar that it would be the same artist within two years selling the same wares as before.

Commissioner Chew commented that it’s a simple solution and would streamline the process. He suggested that either he or Program Director Lazar given an update of approved artists at the full Arts Commission meeting.

Motion: Motion to rescind Arts Commission Resolution No. 65-89-228 (Granting Priority in Issuance of New Certificates to Former Certificate Holders), adopted June 5, 1989, and to adopt a new resolution regarding Priority in Issuance of New Certificates to Former Certificate Holders in order to authorize the Street Artists Program Director on behalf of the Executive Director of the Arts Commission (the “Director of Cultural Affairs”) to approve requests by former certificate-holders whose certificates have been expired for no longer than two (2) years, for issuance of new certificate with waiver of re-examination of their wares providing that such artists sell only the same items for which they were previously screened and issued a certificate and who have demonstrated ongoing compliance with the Street Artists Ordinance and corresponding regulations for the past 3 consecutive years.
Moved: Calloway, Chuang.

Commissioner Chew called for public comment. There was no public comment.

The motion was unanimously approved.

8. Action. Hearing and possible motion to authorize Street Artists Program Director to approve requests by certificate-holders for re-issuance of their previous certificate number where such number remains available.

Program Director Lazar described that it would eliminate an agenda item on the Street Artists Program Committee agenda and on the full Arts Commission agenda. He explained that some artists ask for their former certificate number because of personal significance.

Motion: Motion to authorize Street Artists Program Director to approve requests by certificate-holders for re-issuance of their previous certificate number where such number remains available.
Moved: Chuang, Calloway.

Public Comment:

Street Artist Paula Datesh asked how a person can put an item or a request on the Street Artists Committee agenda. She noted that the Clarks sent an email at Christmas.

The motion was unanimously approved.

9. Action. Hearing and possible motion to request the Board of Supervisors to amend Article 24 (San Francisco Municipal Code), Section 2401(b), by changing the definition of "Handcrafted Item" from its present definition of "An item predominantly created or significantly altered in form by the street artist" to "An item made by hand or by a hand process as contrasted to machine made."

Program Director Lazar reported that the person who submitted this requested asked that it be continued to the March meeting since they could not attend today’s meeting.

10. Discussion. Public Comment.

Street Artist Paula Datesh reminded the Commissioners of the codes and Sunshine Ordinance. She stated that she is repeating what she said “yesterday” at the full Arts Commission that, she requested twice that the minutes of November meeting be rewritten. She said she’s not getting an explanation as to why they’re not being rewritten since there are obvious violations that need to be addressed. She said she would like to see that happen.

Ray Hartz, Director of San Francisco Open Government, wanted the Commissioners to notice that he doesn’t talk about the substance of their meeting but the open government law and requirements. He said that every agenda says know your rights under Sunshine and members of the public aren’t always as familiar about them as others. He stated that this puts the responsibility on the Commissioners and Commission to ensure that they follow the rules of the Sunshine Ordinance and Brown Act. He stated that he doesn’t intend to pick on the Commission but to make sure the public is being treated fairly and consistently so that they don’t have to go to the Sunshine Task Force. He gave examples of deficiencies such as too few copies of the agenda and certain items not in the packet. As a result, he said, members of the public who may or may not want to attend will look at the agenda items online to see if they want to show up at the meeting to discuss an item. He said if the information isn’t available, people have to come to the meeting to find out if they need to be there. He said the process is more efficient if the information is available. He also explained that if you are a participant of an agenda item, you are not considered a member of the public for general public comment; otherwise you would get two chances to present your case since you had unlimited time to make your case before the motion. He said that it defeats the purpose of equity. He stated that public comment is intended to give members of public who aren’t participants the opportunity to add additional information they want Commissioners to consider. He suggested getting a timer that’s visible for speakers. He said in reviewing the minutes, there is a tendency that some people get to run over and some people don’t get to run over in speech. He suggested being consistent with every person. He said he has a timer that lights up at 30 seconds and at 10 seconds so everyone can see how much time is left.

Street Artist Kathy Hallinan wanted to make sure the Commissioners got the letter from the Port. She said that at the September meeting, she was promised a meeting with the Port by Rip Malloy. She said that they had one initial meeting and was promised that the Port would bag meters at the end of Jefferson Street to get replacement spaces. She said that they were supposed to be working with the Committee in conjunction with Mr. Lazar to discuss spaces and then never had another meeting. She said she doesn’t feel that the artists had an opportunity and doesn’t feel that they were given their voice. She stated that it’s important because of the Grand Jury observations that street artists need to have their own input into their own outcomes. She said there were only communications between Mr. Lazar and the Port but street artists were never involved and then they got an email about losing their spaces. She said in September, Mr. Malloy said he’d be glad to work with Mr. Lazar and she was looking forward to fostering communications with the Port. She asked Commissioners to her letter and said that she has an agenda item to present for the next item.

Commissioner Chew commented that communications with Port are strong but it was unfortunate that spaces were lost.

Program Director Lazar said he reported at the last Street Artist Committee meeting that Mr. Malloy and other Port personnel said they didn’t want to grant street artist spaces by Pier 35 which is what several artists wanted and they weren’t in favor of creating alternative temporary spaces on different sides of Jefferson Street during the construction period. He said that the only temporary area Mr. Malloy proposed was at the end of Jefferson at Hyde, but he received negative feedback from other artists about that area.

11. Discussion. New Business and Announcements.

There was no further new business or announcements.

Public Comment:

Street Artist Paula Datesh requested a copy of the “bluebook” and said she heard yesterday about an internal book on the program. She said she filed an immediate disclosure request and filed a formal one. She said not to make her go to the Sunshine Task Force and that “you can easily get me that information.”

Street Artist Kathy Hallinan stated that she missed the November meeting. She said that in the Port’s letter it says that stakeholders, street artists, merchants, Fisherman’s Wharf merchants, and police need to address a number of operational issues and provide an opportunity to improve the program. She asked that the Commissioners create an agenda item where they would invite the Port in advance of the 6 month countdown of completion of the Jefferson Street renovation to come to the next Street Artists Program Committee meeting to start communication. She said she wants to hear from Port personnel what they’re referring to in the letter so it can be addressed and what the Port plans on doing with the street artists after the 6 months. She asked for the Arts Commission and Program Committee to be behind her. She stated that street artists are stakeholders. She said she looks forward to having the power and justice of the Program Committee and Arts Commission supporting them. She said they were not invited to some previous meetings in the planning process. She said she wants to start this process early and have the Port make a presence. She stated that she looks forward to a good relationship and that she will submit her proposal in writing.

Program Director Lazar answered Commissioner Chew’s question that he would be pleased to ask Mr. Malloy to attend a Street Artists Committee meeting and that Mr. Malloy did come to a Street Artists Committee meeting without being summoned.

Commissioner Calloway said he appreciated that Ms. Hallinan was being proactive. He said that it’s important since the street artists are viewed as the step child. He said that it’s important to make a visible presence in the City and it needs to be respected. It’s important, as she said, that they should be an active stakeholder.

Commissioner Chew stated that he still wanted the Port to consider the street artists.

Ray Hartz, Director of San Francisco Open Government, said he attends public meetings for two reasons: to ensure members of the public are given every opportunity they are allowed under law to comment at meetings and to access public records where it’s appropriate. He spoke about an educative process. He said that, earlier in the meeting, Ms. Datesh asked how to get an item on the agenda. He stated that her question was not responded to when it specifically was related to Clark’s letter asking something be put on the agenda. He said he thought this is a good place to answer her question. He explained that “New Business” is an action item and requires public comment. He said that the public can also present items that they want considered for a future agenda. He stated that it’s part of the educative process and enhances public meetings for all. He said this item is where anyone can get up and ask to put an item on a future agenda so the public as well as Commissioners can consider it. He said that part of the process is to encourage public participation and let people know that there are certain procedures so everyone gets a fair opportunity to present their ideas so open government actually occurs.

12. Action. Adjournment.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:12 p.m.

ADL 1/22/2013 

Respectfully submitted by:
Alyssa Licouris, Street Artists Program Assistant

Minutes approved by:
Howard Lazar, Street Artists Program Director

Additional Explanatory documents submitted at the meeting: Item #3: Updated Map of BART spaces by Howard Lazar; Item #10: Port Letter submitted by Kathy Hallinan.

 

An audio recording of this meeting is available online at the following address: http://www.sfgov3.org/index.aspx?page=4151

Translated written materials and interpretation services are available to you at no cost. For assistance, please notify Howard Lazar, 415-252-2583, howard.lazar@sfgov.org.

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如需協助，Howard Lazar, 415-252-2583, howard.lazar@sfgov.org

Materiales traducidos y servicios de interpretación están disponibles para usted de manera gratuita. Para asistencia, notifique a Howard Lazar, 415-252-2583, howard.lazar@sfgov.org.