2025 Annapolis Film Festival Fee Waiver - For the purpose of identifying the Annapolis Film Festival that will be held on March 27-30, 2025, as a Major Special Event; and waiving charges for certain City of Annapolis costs related to city services for that event.
CITY COUNCIL OF THE
City of Annapolis
Resolution 10-25
Introduced by Mayor Buckley
Referred to:
Finance Committee
A RESOLUTION concerning
2025 Annapolis Film Festival Fee Waiver
FOR the purpose of identifying the the Annapolis Film Festival that will be held on March 27-30, 2025, as a Major Special Event; and waiving charges for certain City of Annapolis costs related to city services for that event.
WHEREAS, Section 14.18.110 of the City Code states that “the City Council may exempt certain special events from fees by resolution”; and
WHEREAS, The Annapolis Film Festival and Annapolis Film Society bring together a diverse cross-section of our community and beyond for a shared cinema experience that enlightens, entertains, and inspires, sparking conversation and connection within our community; and
WHEREAS, The Annapolis Film Festival showcases will feature more than 70 curated films over four days, along with panel discussions, post-screening Q&As, coffee talks, and more with filmmakers, directors, and industry experts each year; and
WHEREAS, The Annapolis Film Festival:
• Is one of the most prominent and well-regarded film festivals in the country and places Annapolis 'on the map' for filmmakers and film lovers;
• Showcases diverse local, national and international voices;
• Encourages participation of and connects with a diverse audience of residents and visitors;
• Creates opportunities for filmmakers, creators, writers and artists
• Promotes ideas, fosters creative thinking, critical response and dialogue; and
• Helps to build awareness, broaden thinking, expand understanding and help to connect us to others in ways that go beyond our everyday experiences and circumstances - sorely needed in what can seem an increasingly divided and polarized world; and
WHEREAS, The City of Annapolis recognizes that the Annapolis Film Festival events contribute to the local economy, promote tourism and foster a welcoming spirit among residents and visitors alike.
NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that:
1. The Annapolis Film Festival that will be held March 27-30, 2025, is hereby designated a Major Special Event in recognition of its significance to our heritage and public service to our City; and
2. The City of Annapolis hereby waives reimbursement for the costs associated with the Annapolis Film Festival up to a maximum of $2,500, including but not limited to costs for providing security, cleanup and other related services; and
3. This fee waiver expresses the city's appreciation for the annual Annapolis Film Festival's positive impact on the community and its commitment to fostering a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors.
AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that this resolution shall take effect upon passage.