You can read about it at the Save Chicago Culture website, where you can find ways to sign a petition if you are a Chicago resident. If you are, we urge you to call your Alderman and write a letter.
Here’s an excerpt from the blog that explains the situation:
The “Event Promoters” ordinance requires any event promoter to have a license from the city of Chicago and liability insurance of $300,000, but that’s just the start:
- The definition of “event promoter” is so loosely defined it could apply to a band that books its own shows or a theater company that’s in town for a one-week run.
- “Event Promoter” must be licensed and will pay $500 - $2000 depending on expected audience size.
- To get the license, applicant must be over 21, get fingerprinted, submit to a background check, and jump over several other hurdles.
- This ordinance seems targeted towards smaller venues, since those with 500+ permanent seats are exempt.
- Police must be notified at least 7 days in advance of event.
For the complete ordinance, check out Jim DeRogatis’ blog on the Chicago Sun-Times.
