SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF AGREEMENTS WITH SALT LAKE ORGANIZING COMMITTEE FOR THE JANUARY 18, 2002, OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY
Adoption of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute (a) an Agreement for Torch Relay Services and (b) a Designated Marks and Copyrights License Agreement related to the proposed Olympic Torch Relay through San José on January 18, 2002, and the related Host Community Celebration, each agreement with the Salt Lake Organizing Committee.
BACKGROUND
In early November 2000, the Salt Lake Organizing Committee (SLOC) for the Olympic Winter Games of 2002 invited the City of San José to be a celebration city for the 2002 Olympic Torch Relay. In November 2000, staff representing various City departments met to discuss participation in and support of the event. Support issues discussed included potential impacts on public property, required permits, liability, staffing and equipment. The general consensus of City staff was that the project was feasible, contingent upon the negotiation and execution of a final agreement between the City and SLOC. The City acknowledged that in the final agreement, the City would be required to provide City services for the Relay and the Community Celebration without any cost to SLOC.
Subsequently, the Host City Planning Task Force was formed, including SLOC, official Olympic Torch Relay sponsors, and City department representatives. In March 2001, the San Jose Sports Authority joined the Task Force. The immediate task for the San Jose Sports Authority was to coordinate the community-wide selection process for Relay runner nominees, which was completed in June, 2001.
The Olympic Torch Relay will allow San José residents and visitors to share in the Olympic celebration and its ideals. The Relay route showcases City schools, cultural facilities, parks, neighborhoods, business districts, and the downtown. The free, public Host Community Celebration, takes place in downtown San José on the streets adjacent to the Center for the Performing Arts, which will feature multicultural performing arts groups that reflect the diversity of San José. Also planned is a VIP Reception for City dignitaries, community leaders, athletes and local Olympians. Departments providing City services include Transportation, Fire and Police. The Office of Cultural Affairs of the Department of Conventions, Arts and Entertainment is providing event production and coordination services. The San Jose Sports Authority is providing both the Relay and the Celebration volunteer coordination. The estimated cost to the City of providing such services is $10,000.
Multiple public outreach methods resulted in the selection of 80 regional relay runners, of which 20 are South Bay residents. Although the Relay route has not been published for security reasons, City staff will facilitate interactive opportunities with the schools, businesses and institutions along the route.
This item has been coordinated with the City Attorney’s Office, Risk Management, the Department of Transportation, Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services, General Services, Fire and Police Departments, the San Jose Sports Authority and the Valley Transportation Authority.
Nancy Johnson
Director, Conventions, Arts and Entertainment