June 12, 2009

Lee Leffingwell

Mayor

City of Austin

P.O. Box 1088

Austin, TX 78767

Dear Lee Leffingwell:

I am writing to ask you to defend Austin’s title of “Live Music Capital of the World”. As evidenced by the citations and cessations of several live music events, it is no longer honest for the City of Austin to continue using that slogan while enforcing existing sound ordinances.

The recent events at Shady Grove -- which have been widely and publicly discussed by businessman Mike Young, musician Kevin Russell, and writer Michael Corcoran -- are part of a battle to protect Austin’s reputation. There has to be a way to keep Austin’s music scene alive and integrity intact.

The current permitting process is unnecessary red tape for businesses and locations that have been providing live music for years and, in some cases, decades. I would like to recommend a grandfather clause for existing live music venues that allows them permanent exemption from the sound ordinance.  If necessary, the exemption could simply raise the decibel limit, and/or restrict the exemption to only certain days and times.

It is important to keep Austin’s identity unique from other cities. My votes on local matters are based on what I believe helps Austin maintain the character that attracted me to move here nearly two decades ago. I hope that your actions in City Council reflect the same concerns.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,