Posting Language
Title
Authorize negotiation and execution of a Place-Based Enhancement Cultural Preservation economic development agreement with Esther’s Follies to support its continued operation as a live performance venue, for a total amount not to exceed $182,664 over a five-year term to support retention of this local legacy creative sector business. Funding: $35,100 is available in the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Economic Incentive Reserve Fund. Funding for future award payments will be contingent upon future appropriations to the reserve fund.
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Lead Department
Austin Economic Development.
Fiscal Note
Maximum economic development agreement payments to Esther’s Follies are estimated at $182,664 over the course of a five-year term, if all performance and compliance criteria are met. Funding for incentive payments is contingent upon the annual appropriation of funds to the Economic Incentive Reserve Fund. Eligible sources of funding for the Economic Incentive Reserve Fund may include, but are not limited to, sales taxes, property taxes, mixed beverage taxes, and grants and private donations.
For More Information:
Mac Cummins, Director, Austin Economic Development, 512-568-9720; Matthew Schmidt, Division Manager, Austin Economic Development, 512-974-6415.
Additional Backup Information:
Project Summary and Impact
Esther’s Follies, founded in 1977, is a nearly 50-year-old cultural institution at 525 East Sixth Street, within the Red River Cultural District’s footprint and along Austin’s historic Sixth Street corridor known for its original blend of political satire, magic, music, and theatrical performance. The theater has served as a creative anchor in Austin’s cultural landscape, reflecting the city’s evolving identity through live performance while supporting generations of local artists. With approximately 200 patrons per show and five performances weekly, Esther’s Follies contributes consistent economic and cultural activity to the district while offering ...
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