Indio Council Member "Sam" Torres Suspends Music Festival Tax Proposal
INDIO - Amid escalating debate over the future of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival's residency, Indio Councilman Ascencion "Sam" Torres announced his decision to suspend activity on a proposed admission tax ballot initiative connected to the popular music festival.
In a statement released Thursday, Indio City leaders say Torres' efforts were based on the desire to generate additional revenue to support city services in these tough economic times. But his proposal also brought harsh criticism by Indio's business community, fans of the music festival and the producers of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival which helps deliver millions of dollars to Indio's economy each year.
According to Council Member Torres, "the potential for the music festivals to move out of the city exists, and if this should occur it would negatively impact the region; I cannot in good conscience allow this to happen no matter how dire the city's circumstances." Mr. Torres adds, "My sincere hope is that we can now move past this episode and I personally look forward to working to enhance relationships." The measure, proposed by Torres for the November ballot, would place a 5 to 10 percent tax on admission to events of more than 2,500 people, starting in 2014. "I applaud Mr. Torres' decision and thank him for putting the city's long term prosperity first," said Indio Mayor, Glenn Miller. "We are committed to working with Goldenvoice to identify mutually beneficial solutions to ensure that the music festival economic engine stays in Indio and continues to boost the regional economy," continued Mayor Miller.City leaders also acknowledge the music promoters' commitment to Indio and the Coachella Valley have gone far beyond the music world as they support several important charitable, non-profit, civic, and arts organizations in the region. Goldenvoice also is a major regional employer through its festivals for the months of March and April.
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