Forney Parks Board Dec. 17 ends the year with heavy consideration

During its regular Dec. 17, 2014 meeting, the Park Board spent over 1.5 hours discussing its one main item - whether to rent out the Spellman Amphitheater. This is a very summarized version of the meeting-
Mr. Curry provided an updated version of the data gathered three years ago, when the subject was first considered, which everyone recalled ended in a heated meeting at the amphitheater. Mr. Eastep suggested any plans should be made without alcohol being involved.
Data gathered about 17 other amphitheaters, similar in size, were presented. It was generally agreed the extremely wide scope of the directive to consider this subject makes it difficult to formulate a plan. Information to be gathered or pondered for the next meeting include: who usually rents such facilities (individuals, non-profit groups, for-profit promoters); should such a large facility be available to small groups; could commercial entities use it for non-commercial purposes; how much extra staff would be needed to process applications, coordinate use of the facility and work during events; could FISD students help with operations during events as part of a work-study program; what defines success for use of this facility?
The extreme lack of interest by professional promoters when no alcohol sales are allowed means staff will have to do that work, which probably limits the number of concerts possible. A preliminary review of the comparative amphitheaters reveals only one prohibits alcohol.
At the end-of-meeting report, Ms. Tiesman said the Christmas on Main was a huge success, estimated 8-10 thousand people during the day, 70 vendors, and the first lighted parade.