The 2017 Agreement between the City and Sunset Cultural Center, Inc. (SCC) provides that the City shall have the right to use the theater and lobby for up to twelve (12) full days each fiscal year without charge, as long as the spaces have not already been committed to rental customers by SCC.

Executive Summary

Peace of Mind Dog Rescue (POMDR) and Carmel Dance Festival (CDF), two local non-profits, have requested that the City Council grant them one (1) free use day of the Sunset Center for their community event in April 2025 (Attachment 2).

The event, titled "DANCE for the Love of Dogs," aims to celebrate the bond between humans and their canine companions. It will feature professional dancers from Ballare Carmel and is designed to raise scholarship funds for aspiring dancers and help find forever homes for dogs in need.

POMDR, founded in 2009, focuses on helping seniors keep their dogs and facilitating the adoption of senior dogs. CDF, established in 2021, promotes community involvement in dance. Together, they aim to create a memorable and impactful event benefiting both people and animals.

The benefits of this event to Carmel and its neighboring communities are manifold: proceeds from ticket sales will provide scholarships to the CDF Dance & Choreography Fellowship Program. Fund-raising opportunities such as sponsorships and program advertising will be available to participating animal welfare organizations, and the event will spread awareness about pet adoption and inspire individuals to adopt or volunteer. Additionally, attendees will learn about dance classes and physical fitness opportunities, fostering community cohesion and overall well-being.

Recommendation

Staff requests that Council consider adopting the attached Resolution, which will grant one (1) of the City's Free Use Days of the Sunset Cultural Center Theatre and Lobby for Peace of Mind Dog Rescue and the Carmel Dance Festival event "DANCE for the Love of Dogs" in April 2025.