NIVA Backs Portland’s Moratorium on Large Venues

The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) has applauded the Portland City Council’s 6-3 vote to approve a 180-day moratorium on large venues, halting a proposed Live Nation-backed 3,300 seat venue.

The details:

• The moratorium takes effect September 10 and runs through March.

• It provides time to assess the proposed venue’s impact on the city’s $550 million live entertainment industry.

• The vote followed hours of public testimony from local musicians, independent venues and promoters, who warned that Live Nation’s entry into the Portland market could put the city’s small and mid-sized venues at risk.

• They also warned it could siphon the economic benefits of Maine’s live entertainment industry away from the state’s communities.

Economic Impact:

• Prior to the Council meeting NIVA released economic impact data showing Maine’s independent live venues, promoters and festivals contribute hundreds of millions of dollars and thousands of jobs each year to the state.

What they said:

• Scott Mohler, Executive Director Maine Music Alliance: “We are obviously thrilled with the result, but know the battle is not over. We will use this time to organize the community, engage the council, and work towards our ultimate goal of keeping Portland and the state of Maine independent. We applaud the City Council for having the courage to make the right decision, and we optimistically look forward to working in the best interest of our local musicians and independent venues.”