In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposal to relocate the administrative management of the Santa Fe Film Office from the county to the city. This move is intended to streamline operations, although it has raised concerns among some commissioners about the implications for staff and regional film initiatives.
Commissioner Green expressed reservations about the transition, questioning the rationale behind the move and whether it posed any risks to the office's effectiveness. He highlighted the importance of protecting the rights and benefits of long-serving employees, particularly Director Jen LaBartapia, who has been with the office for over 20 years. The agreement stipulates that the city will recognize LaBartapia's accumulated leave and seniority, ensuring she retains her benefits during the transition.
LaBartapia provided insights into the film production landscape, noting that both the city and county have multiple facilities for film production, with resources being fairly balanced in recent months. She emphasized that the office would continue to serve the entire region, regardless of its administrative location.
The discussion also touched on the need for a designated liaison to facilitate communication between the city and county moving forward, as the current structure does not include one. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure that the transition would not adversely affect ongoing film initiatives in the region.