The purpose of this resolution is to establish a committee to investigate and research alternative options to renting offices in Los Angeles, including purchasing our own building, and establish financial responsibility and due diligence.
Whereas: The union spends approximately $5.5 million dollars or more on rent for the local Los Angeles offices, grossly limiting the amount of monies spent on other necessary programs
Whereas: The union continuously rents additional space for screenings, board meetings, Membership events, etc. from other unions as well as event spaces.
Whereas: The union is in a position to purchase a building in Los Angeles and benefit from the long term benefits of the Los Angeles real estate market.
Whereas: The union can benefit from additional income from rentals to other organizations when available.
Whereas: The union would have full control of design and establishment of a state of the art screening room, which is an actually an embarrassment that we cannot adequately screen film and television for our own members. We have to rent the DGA for our own screening series currently.
Therefore, be it resolved: The Union shall consider the establishment of a committee to investigate and research the options of purchasing their own building, thus saving money from renting offices and adding to our income in the future.
The amount of money that is being thrown away for rent could best be turned around. There is additional unused space we are paying for as well. We can also increase income by leasing for events and to other fellow Unions who may need additional event space. We can also finally establish a proper screening room, which is still ludicrous that we do not have at this point in time. With any semblance of fiduciary responsibility, it can be clearly seen that our Union can only benefit from such a purchase, save money and in fact turn around our finances. There is no down side, especially in a market as beneficial as Los Angeles. Furthermore, we can review other locals and save money there as well.
Anthony Marciona