A Christian-based nonprofit organization unaffiliated with the
Hollister Independence Rally Committee has requested use of a
city-owned parking lot as a three-day entertainment venue during
the annual motorcycle rally weekend July 4-6.
A Christian-based nonprofit organization unaffiliated with the Hollister Independence Rally Committee has requested use of a city-owned parking lot as a three-day entertainment venue during the annual motorcycle rally weekend July 4-6.
Officials from HIRC and the city expressed support for plans of the organization – potentially the first outside of HIRC to use city property for entertainment during the rally.
Representatives from Weyman Thomas Ministries attended the City Council meeting Monday and requested use of the parking lot near Fourth and San Benito streets next to the IOOF Hall. The Council directed the Public Works Department to draft a permit agreement. Mayor Brian Conroy was not in attendance.
Weyman Thomas, founder of the organization, said all profits would go toward other nonprofit organizations within the city – similarly to HIRC’s operation – and mentioned the Emmaus House and Community Pantry as examples of recipients.
Thomas said a Christian theme would be the “basis of how we’re going to try to do this.”
“I believe that it’s something God’s placed in my heart,” he said.
The lot has 58 parking spaces, according to officials, and Thomas estimated that 300 to 400 motorcycles could be accommodated at one time.
Thomas’ entertainment consultant David Roberts, who was also in attendance at the meeting, estimated the weekend’s entertainment and sponsorship revenues could potentially generate $200,000 to $250,000. However, that estimate includes expenses, the potential of which are unclear at this point.
“We really want to put money back into the community,” Thomas said.
He said there would be a Christian element to some of the entertainment, but not all. There would also be a Sunday church service at the location, which already takes place annually at other downtown sites during the rally weekend.
The organization would likely present laser light shows Friday and Saturday nights, and several music performers would be booked throughout Saturday, according to Roberts. The organization would not serve alcohol or food, but would serve soda and water.
“I believe this is going to be a very inspirational project for the community,” Roberts said.
Councilman Tony LoBue expressed the most vocal support among Council members for the arrangement.
“It’s a good way of generating some revenue for some of the nonprofits in the area,” LoBue said.
Councilman Tony Bruscia inquired about the possibility of an agreement between Weyman Thomas Ministries and HIRC. However, Public Works Director Clint Quilter advised against that option because of time constraints, as the rally weekend is less than seven weeks away.
Quilter expressed a couple concerns about the arrangement. He mentioned the potential that unpermitted groups may imitate Thomas’ organization and illegally operate vendor stands at other parking lots.
If the Council approves the idea, Quilter said city staff recommends a “comprehensive policy” between Hollister and Weyman Thomas Ministries for the lot’s use. He said the agreement should include insurance specifications, use fees and provisions about distribution of proceeds. Overall, the conditions would be similar to the agreement between the city and HIRC.
