[Adopted 7-14-2021 by Ord. No. 31]
At present, there is not an agency, board, or commission in
the City of Utica delegated to the responsibility of attracting and
aiding motion picture/television filmmakers and producers. The Utica
Film Commission shall be a regional TV and film office comprised of
industry professionals that work with their local and regional governments
and communities to responsibly grow film and television production
across New York State. The office and Film Commission provide referral
services and assistance for location, logistics, paperwork, production
and scouting within the scope of the TV and film production sector.
The office and Film Commission shall not charge for services provided.
The Utica Film Commission shall be known as "the Commission"
for the purpose of marketing, directory, and listing services.
The Film Commissioner shall be an individual designated by the
Mayor to serve as the regional office and Film Commission's point
of contact for the functions listed in Sec. 2-2-210, Functions. The
Film Commissioner shall serve at the pleasure of the Mayor and shall
have a background in the motion picture industry, television industry,
or videography.
The Utica Film Commission shall consist of three members:
The Utica Film Commission shall meet at least biannually at
which the referral services of the Commission are to be assessed and
reviewed for content, accuracy, and support in accordance with the
goals and principles of a regional film office as described by the
New York State Empire State Development Office of Motion Picture and
Television Development (MPTV) and for such other business as necessary.
The Commission shall:
(a)
Concern itself with any and all matters pertaining the development
and use of the City of Utica and surrounding region by the motion
picture and television industry.
(b)
Cooperate and assist the motion picture and television industry in
utilizing the natural and man-made resources within the City of Utica
and surrounding region for locations.
(c)
Advise, assist, and cooperate with other agencies of the City of
Utica, other local governments, boards, agencies or commissions and
private enterprises, whether within or outside the City of Utica,
on any and all matters pertaining to the motion picture and television
industry.
(d)
Solicit the use of the City of Utica and surrounding region as location
sites for prospective film and television productions.
(e)
Coordinate and/or refer motion picture and television film projects
in the City of Utica and surrounding region with regard to laws, permits
and fees, etc.
(f)
Prepare and maintain a comprehensive guide/website of the City of
Utica and surrounding area's resources available for motion picture
and television productions.
