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TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Alex Voigt, Deputy Chief of Staff
DATE: May 31, 2023
SUBJECT:
Establishing the Music, Events and Entertainment (MEE) Commission Under Chapter 2, Article VI of the Code of Ordinances.
PURPOSE:
To create an advisory commission comprised of a diverse, knowledgeable group of members serving in an advisory capacity to the city council concerning the needs of the events and entertainment community in Aurora.
BACKGROUND:
The MEE commission will be tasked with creating and maintaining a public calendar home to all live performance events citywide. The commission will also work with live performance artists, including but not limited to, poetry, comedy, music (instrumental, vocal and DJ) to find locations for them to perform.
The format, mission and goals of this board align with other current city boards, commissions and councils.
DISCUSSION:
This advisory commission will be tasked with the following:
• Organizing, supporting and/or promoting live entertainment in Aurora;
• Create and manage a master calendar of all live performances that is accessible to the public;
• Host public meetings to learn more about matters that affect the live performance community in Aurora;
• Make appropriate recommendations to the City Council regarding the growth of the live performance community in Aurora.
This commission will fill a gap in the city’s current host of arts-based boards/commissions. The goal will be for this commission to work in concert with the other groups.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff respectfully creates support and adoption of this ordinance.
cc: Rules, Administration and Procedures Committee

CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
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An Ordinance Establishing the Music, Events and Entertainment (MEE) Commission Under Chapter 2, Article VI of the Code of Ordinances.
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WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the creation of the MEE Commission will create an avenue for the city to better address the needs of the entertainment community; and
WHEREAS, creation of this board will continue to enhance the city’s efforts towards being a prime location for live entertainment and the arts in general.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows: that Section 2-491 of Chapter 2, Article VI the City Code of Ordinances shall be adopted as set forth in Exhibit A, hereby creating the Music, Events and Entertainment (MEE) Commission.