TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Ann Sylvester, Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
SUBJECT:
title
Resolution to Approve Agreement Extension for Literary Arts Services - Poet Laureate
end
BACKGROUND:
The City previously entered into an Agreement for Literary Arts Services with Uxmar Torres to serve as Joliet's Poet Laureate for the term July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026. The proposed Agreement Extension would continue Mr. Torres' service as Poet Laureate from July 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027.
During his original term, Mr. Torres successfully carried out literary programming and public performance obligations. Under the proposed extension, he will continue to provide five public readings or performance events, five poetry writing workshops, and one original poem written for and about the City of Joliet at no additional fee. The extension also includes specified programming totaling $5,000: Poetry Under the Stars Open Mic, Concerts on the Hill Series Open Mic and Karaoke, and three City Square Poetry Open Mics.
The Agreement Extension was presented to the Joliet Arts Commission on September 16, 2026, and was unanimously approved by all members. The Commission recommends approval of the extension to continue public
Sufficient funds exist (Org 10005100 Object 523300)
CONCLUSION:
There is no compensation for holding the title of Poet Laureate during the extension term. The Agreement provides a total of $5,000 for the specified programming listed in agreement. Any additional funding for other requested services or materials would be considered by the City on a case-by-case basis, subject to the availability of funds.
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Based of the above, it is recommended that the Mayor and City Council adopt the attached Resolution to Approve Agreement Extension for Literary Arts Services - Poet Laureate with Uxmar Torres.
end