A Few Minutes with the Mayor – July 2021

After a non-existent 2020 season, due to COVID-19, Britt Music and Arts Festival has worked hard to provide programs for 2021. Recently your Mayor, City Administrator and staff, City Planner, and City Fire Chief, along with Britt President and CEO, Donna Briggs, met for a pre-season conference before the Britt 2021 Season. We discussed past issues and concerns from both the city and neighborhoods, and Britt point of view. This meeting was very productive and should alleviate issues on both sides. The salient topics follow.

Preparing for the Upcoming Britt Season—Over the past year, we have received several comments regarding the Britt Music and Arts Festival and the neighborhood impacts resulting from the venue. Since then, Britt has been actively working with the City on developing solutions in an effort to mitigate some of the concerns. The purpose is to implement and refine strategies in order to strike a balance between neighborhood livability, while continuing Britt’s tradition as a Performing Arts Center that is a fundamental part of the Jacksonville Community.

2021 Britt Litter Removal Route

Trash Pickup—The City received a number of complaints regarding trash and litter in neighborhoods as a result of Britt events. In order to improve cleanup, Britt has contracted with Rogue Retreat’s “Clean Sweep” program. They will provide litter patrol in the neighborhood the morning after every show, which will be completed by 10am.

Bus and Truck Idling—The City received comments regarding bus and truck idling in the parking area on First Street. Britt said they will ensure that they are connected to the shore power when they are not actively moving. They have hired a new Production Manager who is committed to ensuring that the vehicles comply with the requirements of the Master Plan. His information is listed below.

Sound Control—The City received a number of comments regarding the sound monitoring equipment. Britt recently purchased and installed fixed sound monitoring equipment in addition to what’s already there. The City will be able to independently test this equipment.

Smoking—Fire risk is certainly a major concern. Because of the fire risk in Jacksonville, the Britt Music and Arts Festival has adopted a zero-tolerance smoking policy, which applies to cigarettes, cigars, marijuana, and vaping devices.  If a patron is found smoking, they will be removed from the venue. Britt will make announcements of the policy at the beginning of each performance.

Increased Police Presence—Britt has agreed to fund an additional police shift so the City is better able to monitor and enforce issues during and after performances.

Point of Contact—In partnership with the Britt Music and Arts Festival, we hope to have a successful Britt season, while also maintaining a balance with the neighborhood. Britt has offered a point of contact that is available 24-7 on and after a Britt performance. If there’s ever an issue, please reach out and let them know so they can provide immediate response.

Contact information for the Britt Liaison is:

Schraepfer Harvey
Britt Production Manager
302-598-0725

The Britt Performance Schedules are now starting to roll out. For more information, please visit www.brittfest.org.

Sometimes, as citizens, we don’t avail ourselves of all Jacksonville has to offer. Post COVID, an outdoor concert is a great way to get out of the house and enjoy ourselves. Welcome back Britt Music and Arts Festival!