Note: The online Request to Speak window has expired.
The online Comment window has expired
Agenda Item
3 24-0519 Subject: Film Rebate Program
From: Economic And Workforce Development Department
Recommendation: Adopt An Ordinance Amending The Oakland Municipal Code By Establishing A Film Rebate Program To Reimburse A Percentage Of Film Permitees' Expenses In The City Of Oakland Provided Funding Is Available For This Purpose; And Making California Environmental Quality Act Findings
As a producer who had to leave the region for better work opportunities, it’s imperative we act now in order to not fall into another brain drain loop that will surely happen if we miss this opportunity.
As a producer and production manager for the past 15 years, I've experienced many out of town production companies passing on shooting the Bay Area and Oakland specifically due to costs and lack of incentives for filming here. Lack of rental houses as well as studios is also a massive hurdle to convincing producers from LA or beyond to film in Oakland. I strongly believe that approving this ordinance will incentivize production companies to bring jobs to town and create jobs for local film production professionals. In addition to the benefits for production specific businesses, keeping shoots in Oakland will ensure that money is spent feeding crews at local restaurants, supplies for art and construction will be purchased locally, and all locations and rental fees will remain in town as well.
As a producer who had to leave the region for better work opportunities, it’s imperative we act now in order to not fall into another brain drain loop that will surely happen if we miss this opportunity.
As a producer and production manager for the past 15 years, I've experienced many out of town production companies passing on shooting the Bay Area and Oakland specifically due to costs and lack of incentives for filming here. Lack of rental houses as well as studios is also a massive hurdle to convincing producers from LA or beyond to film in Oakland. I strongly believe that approving this ordinance will incentivize production companies to bring jobs to town and create jobs for local film production professionals. In addition to the benefits for production specific businesses, keeping shoots in Oakland will ensure that money is spent feeding crews at local restaurants, supplies for art and construction will be purchased locally, and all locations and rental fees will remain in town as well.