Here is the summary with the requested modifications:
High-Level Summary
The city council meeting, chaired by Brad Bradford, primarily focused on the sustainability and regulatory support for Toronto's live music venues, with key contributions from Shan (Vice-chair of TMAC), Lisa, and Councillor Morley. Action items included the health of live music venues, new licensing categories, and the impact of zoning regulations on venue viability.
Key Topics Discussed
Health of Independent Grassroots Venues:
- The council discussed the decline in independent venues due to takeovers by large entities like Live Nation. Shan expressed concerns about the shrinking catalog of grassroots venues, emphasizing the challenge this poses to maintaining local culture: "the actual Grassroots independent venue catalog is shrinking." Councillor Morley highlighted the need for strategies to support venue retention, noting the complexity and urgency of cultural policies.
Place of Assembly License (File MA 4.1):
- A new license category will be implemented starting January 1, 2025, to better regulate live music venues that previously operated under restaurant licenses. Shan acknowledged, "The bulk of the work is complete...more detailed information will follow," underscoring the need for clarity in regulations to ensure safety and compliance across venues.
Impact of Zoning and Land Use Regulations:
- Current zoning frameworks were critiqued for impeding the viability of venues like the Phoenix. Lisa called for updates, describing the regulations as "Antiquated policies" that hinder venue sustainability and growth, making it difficult for these venues to thrive under existing land use constraints.
Committee Task Teams Updates:
- Task teams provided updates on various focus areas, including artist health and affordable housing. Lisa emphasized the voices from the public sector, saying, "more and more I'm hearing from people...that the city is not going to be a very livable place without amenities," highlighting the essential role of these amenities in ensuring a livable city.
Public and Councillor Engagement:
- Public and councillor engagement was active, with Councillor Morley and other members raising questions about supporting local venues. This reflects a shared concern about the implications of losing independent venues to multinational entities and underscores the need for continued engagement to protect the cultural and economic vitality of the city.
Opportunities for Public Input
- Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to provide input on the new licensing changes by contacting TMAC or participating in upcoming consultations, with feedback being directed to tmac@toronto.ca.
Motions and Outcomes
- Motion to Confirm Previous Minutes (May 10th, 2024):
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
- Motion on Toronto Music Advisory Committee Task Team Updates (MA 4.1):
- Outcome: Discussion points were noted without a specific motion outcome documented yet.
Follow-Up Actions
- Future meetings will provide detailed information about the Place of Assembly license and its implications.
- Consultations with city departments regarding capacity adjustments and insurance requirements will continue.
- Monitoring the impact of multinational acquisitions on local venue health and sustainability will be ongoing.
Councillors Present
- Brad Bradford (Chair)
- Shan (Vice-chair)
- Lisa
- Councillor Morley
Other participants included members and staff connecting via video conference or present in the committee room.