Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2025-215 authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute an Economic Development Agreement with The Firehouse Theatre; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Roger Neal
BACKGROUND:
The Firehouse Theatre, located at 2535 Valley View Lane in Farmers Branch, Texas, serves as a cornerstone of the City's performing arts and cultural programming. Established in 2011 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Theatre has been operated by community members and volunteers dedicated to advancing the performing arts within the community.
In 2012, the Theatre moved into the former Fire Station No. 1 facility, and the City of Farmers Branch entered into a multi-year agreement governing its management and use of the City-owned property.
In 2024, the City Council approved an updated Facility Use Agreement with The Firehouse Theatre to define further roles, responsibilities, and expectations between the Theatre and the City.
As part of the FY 2025-26 budget process, a sponsorship agreement for The Firehouse Theatre was included in the proposed and subsequently adopted budget on September 16, 2025. The new fiscal year became effective on October 1, 2025, and the agreement was incorporated into the City's administrative workflow.
The deliverables for the FY2025-26 are as follows:
a) Measure and report patron traffic through ticket sales each quarter based on the goals outlined in the attached request.
b) Measure and report audience attendance by zip code to meet the quarterly goals outlined in the request.
c) Sponsorship marketing recognition for one show each in October through December 2025 and January through March 2026, including:
* 2/3-page ad in top position on program insert recognizing City as show sponsor
* Economic development and tourism video shown on lobby TV at each performance
d) Provide the following support to Discover Farmers Branch Tourism to engage hotels and visitors:
* Order co...
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