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An FYI for everybody in Minneapolis. I just got this from Gary Schiff's newsletter:
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City considers slashing fees for coffee shop music.

The Coffee Unplugged ordinance will make it easier for coffee shops to welcome musicians.

Your favorite coffee shop may get cozier this winter. A proposal sponsored by Council Member Gary Schiff would cut fees for coffee shops that feature acoustic music. The change would eliminate the need for an entertainment license, saving the small businesses $410 dollars annually.

“It’s small change compared to the cost of running a business, but coffee isn’t big bucks,” Schiff said. “Anything we can do to encourage the arts and help small businesses at the same time is a good idea. We need more opportunities for musicians in the city.”

“Live music helps coffee shops attract customers during cold weather,” Maggie Turner, owner of Tillie’s Bean said. “We don’t charge a cover for our live music so we can’t afford the fee. Without live music no one comes in during the evening, which causes us to limit our evening hours.”

Under state law, license fees are supposed to cover the cost of regulating businesses. Schiff argues that limited entertainment doesn’t need regulation. "The city should still regulate dance clubs that open in neighborhoods and the sound levels of amplified music," Schiff said in a Star Tribune article by Chris Riemenschneider, "but I don't think the city needs to worry about acoustic musicians in coffee shops.”

The Public Safety and Regulatory Services Committee of the City Council will hold a hearing on the Coffee Unplugged ordinance at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28 in City Hall, room 317.

Looks like something the musicians should get behind and support. The hearing of course was during working hours for those musicians who have day jobs.

Keep us posted on the results Steve if you can.

Wayne

That would make a difference, I think. Those fees are always in the form of one brutal bill...no sweat for larger venues to cover any month of the year, but a dealbreaker for smaller Mom & Pop places.

Thanks for posting that...Mr. Moderator, sir!

-Lyle

Looks like you've been nominated Steve!

Why does it feel like the Sarge just asked for a volunteer to step forward and you guys just took a step back?