Mayor Ray Russom declared of conflict of interest due to being a vacation rental and homestay provider, called for a brief break at 10:10 p.m., and left the meeting. The Council reconvened at 10:15 p.m.
Council Member George presided over the meeting.
City Manager McDonald presented the report; Ashlee Akers and Natalie Bovee, Verdin Marketing, presented the Annual Report and responded to questions from Council.
At 10:50 p.m., Council Member George stated that pursuant to Council policy, the Council must vote unanimously to continue the meeting past 11:00 p.m. Council Member Guthrie moved to continue the meeting to 11:30 p.m. Council Member Secrest seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously by voice vote.
Council Member George invited public comment. No public comments were received. Council Member George left public comment open.
Discussion continued regarding the Resolution of Intention to levy and collect assessments within the Arroyo Grande Tourism Business Improvement District area for Fiscal Year 2023-24, including the possibility of the disestablishment of the AGTBID and winding up of its affairs in accordance with applicable State law. City Attorney Rosen and City Clerk Matson provided clarification regarding the the public hearing process and public noticing.
Council discussion ensued around using assessment funds towards host compliance, Destination Management Organizations (DMO) versus TBIDs, and the make-up of the TBID Advisory Board. City Attorney Rosen provided clarification regarding DMOs and TBIDs.
Council Member George invited public comment. Speaking from the public was Kathy Cartier, Kathy McCorry, Gaea Powell and Sean Dasmann. No further public comments were received and Council Member George closed public comment.
At 11:30 p.m., Council Member Guthrie moved to continue the meeting to 11:45 p.m. Council Member Secrest seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously by voice vote.
Council discussion included support for changing the make-up of the Advisory Board to a 5-member Board, appointed individually by City Council members, consistent with other City advisory bodies. City Manager McDonald commented that updated Board Bylaws and a discussion of administration of the AGTBID Board will be brought to Council for consideration on May 23, 2023.