Council greenlights staff to pursue Laguna Playhouse assistance, asks for funding plan and safeguards
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Summary
After public testimony from arts organizations, the council supported staff recommendations to pursue a $500,000 assistance package for the Laguna Playhouse and directed staff to return with lease amendments, community-use terms and funding-source options in January.
Laguna Beach — The City Council signaled support for near-term financial assistance to the Laguna Playhouse, directing staff to return on Jan. 13 with specific lease amendments and funding-source options.
Staff described a proposed $500,000 support package to be delivered in two tranches. The proposal included community-use guarantees — 10 to 12 weeks of venue time for nonprofits at reduced rates — and a recommended funding mix drawn from tourism and art-related city funds. Staff warned that the suggested sources have competing priorities and that the arts commission has existing commitments (staff presentation, SEG 2369–2379).
Dozens of arts leaders and nonprofit representatives spoke in favor of supporting the Playhouse, arguing the venue is Laguna’s primary professional theater and a linchpin for performing arts groups that currently struggle to secure consistent performance dates (public commenters SEG 2454–2620). Several speakers described internal board pledges and private donations and urged protections to ensure community access.
Council members expressed support but asked for guardrails: a mid-cycle financial check-in, detailed rate-setting and community-use language in a lease amendment, and a plan to avoid long-term impacts to existing public art programs. The council moved the recommended action with direction for mayor and staff to work on funding-source options; the motion passed by voice vote with the council requesting a return on January 13 with proposed lease language and funding plan.