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Director Berry addressed a series of clarifying questions from Councilmember Marx, <br /> highlighting that there are currently 150-200 members of the public who visit Cove daily for <br /> senior meals, trips, early childcare programs and more. He acknowledged that some programs at <br /> Cove are constrained by age eligibility. However, he noted that the Bistro will be open to all <br /> residents. <br /> Director Berry explained how senior events are currently advertised and acknowledged that more <br /> strategic marketing can and will be done to ensure that seniors are aware of the robust <br /> programming. <br /> Councilmember Marx asked whether a Block Watch group would be charged for use of the <br /> meeting space at Cove. <br /> Director Berry replied that they would not, as long as a Councilmember was present, and the <br /> meeting was under the "care and control" of that councilmember. <br /> Councilmember Kepple asked a series of clarifying questions regarding the use of space. In <br /> response, Director Berry explained that the main sanctuary space can be used by anyone at <br /> almost any time, although space is more limited during senior meals at 11 am — 12pm. He <br /> explained that after-hours rentals will be staffed by maintenance or public works security. <br /> Councilmember Bullock noted that Cove was a $6 million investment and stressed that it should <br /> be focused on serving the public. He expressed concern that the proposed rental rates may be out <br /> of reach for many residents. He asked to know the rate at which rental rates would cover <br /> expenses. He pointed to the pools as an example of a public service that operates at a loss and <br /> suggested that Cove could operate in much the same way to benefit the public. <br /> Councilmember Bullock asked a series of questions and advocated for a user-friendly booking <br /> interface, more spaces available for rent, a dedicated part-time employee for staffing after hours <br /> rental and longer hours for rental opportunities. <br /> Councilmember Bullock expressed his preference for Council to remain in charge of setting the <br /> rental rate fees. <br /> In response to a question, Director Berry explained that the department is currently working with <br /> Law to establish guidelines for rental of the space and a checklist. He added that the intent is to <br /> mirror the guidelines of the Women's Club Pavilion. It was clarified that a group who rents the <br /> space will have exclusive use of the space. <br /> Councilmember Baker advocated for a booking fee as a way to prevent people from overbooking <br /> the space. In response to a question, Director Berry stated that the public will likely be given the <br /> opportunity to rent space at Cove up to one quarter in advance. <br /> Councilmember Rader stated that the one major change proposed in the ordinance is to allow the <br /> administration to set the rental fees. He stated that he is OK with this change as long as the fees <br /> 2 <br />