Following Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s announcement of $45 million in budget cuts earlier this month, the city is now planning to spend $30 million over the next three years on stagehand services at city-owned theaters and arenas throughout the city.
Johnston unveiled the Newcomer Program Strategy Plan, which includes $45 million in savings to avoid layoffs or furloughs of city employees to address the migrant situation. As previously reported by The Center Square, the city’s monthly expenses will rise from $2 million in August 2023 to $15 million in December 2023 to sustain the flood of migrants.
The city and county of Denver and ASM Global have signed a contract to supply services to numerous locations, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver Coliseum, Denver Performing Arts Complex, and maybe the Loretto Heights Theater.
According to records, the city council will vote on the contract during its meeting on April 22.
The general services given by stagehands include load in, execution, and load out of theatrical and musical acts, which may include truck loaders, pushers, riggers, carpenters, and audio and lighting technicians.
This contract covers stagehand management, staffing, supervision, consulting, and payroll administration.
The contract will expire on December 31, 2026, but the city can extend it for two one-year renewal periods.