HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/23/2019 Item Public Comment, Stuermer
Wilbanks, Megan
From:Tom Stuermer <
To:Advisory Bodies
Subject:Please approve SLO REP Theatre project
Planning Commission members,
It is vitally important that your Commission approves the SLO REP joint projects for the new theatre and parking garage coming before
you at your meeting on October 23. Reasons why this is so important:
SLO REP is a cultural asset and the only non-profit professional theatre in San Luis Obispo county, presenting plays and classes year
around. SLO REP has outgrown its current home, but between the main stage and the black box theatre in the new building, nearly
three times as many people will be able to enjoy live theatre. We have had to turn patrons away on some sold out days, and lack of
adequate parking is a frequent problem.
SLO REP's new home will allow expanded programming at SLO FREP and attract larger numbers of residents and visitors, making
them an even greater economic driver for Downtown SLO. As Orcutt residents, we and our guests normally dine out and shop in SLO
when we attend SLO REP. Without the theatre, we would seldom make that drive.
SLO REP will be able to increase its educational programming.
SLO REP has earned this opportunity. Because of the steady improvement in artistic quality over the past decade, SLO REP is one of
the regions best attended art organizations, frequently selling out. The artistic improvement has been made possible by a rapidly
growing donor base, which has demonstrated a strong willingness to fund construction of a new theatre. As area residents and devoted
theatre attenders from Paso Robles to Los Angeles for 34 years, SLO REPs quality equals and often exceeds that of Santa Maria's
PCPA and any other regional offerings.
We urge the Commission members to please approve this important project, and thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely
Thomas and Linda Stuermer
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