There's a tax incentive for film production written into the State budget that's been a long time coming - over 40 other states beat California to the punch in recognizing the value and siphoned off production work from our State. Now the City needs to do something to help lure filmmakers to this location specifically, including those who are working on film projects that come in under a million dollars (the threshold of the State incentive). Some cities around the nation give back a percentage of production costs and/or make city services and buildings available for little or no charge. All of this is in response to the production dollars being spent in the community, crew being employed from the community, and the economic multiplier effect of those dollars being spent. We have at least two major film production companies located in our backyard, looking for an excuse to make their films here, in addition to a thriving community of indie filmmakers, and professionals shooting commercials and music videos companies are here already, we just need to avoid having them go and shoot elsewhere because states like Michigan and Louisiana are making it worth their while to travel. The State incentive does a lot to level the larger playing field, but Sacramento could still benefit by offering a small additional boost, and we'll reap the rewards of those dollars being spent here as well as avoiding having those working professionals leave to follow the work.

With the recent tax incentives passed for filmmaking in CA, Sacramento has a major opportunity to create a major film industry in our own region. As a thriving market that is filled with talented professionals and services, we only need to organize and implement the actions to be a driving force in Northern California for film production. These efforts will not only attract outside productions here, but serve to employ hundreds of our residents as we create an infrastructure, build businesses and create new jobs and revenue streams that will be a boon to the economy in so many ways. As other California regions are aggressively competing for these dollars, it is vital that we get busy NOW in order to stand out! what we offer, how we offer it and how soon we get it started. First and foremost, what we are LACKING is a fulltime, dedicated film commission office to lead the way. Our current part-time representation from the office of the Convention and Vistors Bureau is not enough to drive this important business opportunity to fruition. In the meantime, the Capital Film Arts Alliance and other noted film professionals and organizations are already discussing the regions needs and are prepared to offer assistance and recommendations to your office. We are a world-class city, and it is time that the capital of Sacramento take a large role in bulding this important local industry and benefit from the major opportunity before us. -Laurie Pederson, Executive Director - Capital Film Arts Alliance

Is it possible to do mass firings of police?

Laurie & I attended the town hall meetiing tonight. Kevin seemed really interested in supporting the film community. I think the main thing we need is a dedicated film commissioner-a full time job, for a city that deserves it! Our neighbors in Folsom already offer great incentives to filmmakers-now Sactown needs to get on board!!!! The jobs we attract (if we get the incentive right) will dump MILLIONS into the Sacramento economy. We are an Indie town that can be an Indie GIANT if we play our cards right & if we play them NOW.