Hey MSP fam,
I meant to put this to the CORE list, and not the slightly larger TEAM list. I guess that may have been a good oops, since Brooke's offer already sounds like a option worthy of exploration.
And Lara, I really like your suggestions too!
On Tue, Sep 4, 2012 at 12:43 PM, Lara Weibgen
<laraw...@gmail.com> wrote:
Could we ask them to look into the possibility of establishing an L3C as an alternative to the 501(c)3 & coop options? I'd also be interested in learning more about community land trusts & finding out whether there are any ways we can benefit from the financial perks for arts organizations in the new BAM Cultural District.
Here's the prelim draft of legal matters that Community Economic Development clinic at CUNY Law could help us with. After we talk about this as a team, it might be good to shop this list around to people who have run other spaces to see if there are other matters they think we should investigate.
xx
Lucas
INCORPORATION / MANAGEMENT
- Do we establish a 501c3? A worker-run coop? What are the possible forms of governance that allow for effective management of finances, programming, and accountable decision-making? Pros and cons of each option.
- Should we explore having a fiscal sponsor until we have our own funding stream? What are some available options on that front?
- How to navigate questions about staff for space and those who are volunteering their time?
PROPERTY LAW
- What do we need to know about buying or leasing properties?
- Is it true that a building with part ownership from a non-profit has reduced property taxes?
- What zoning restrictions should we be mindful of?
USE ISSUES
- What is the process and getting a liquor and/or wine/beer license? Can one have drinks for special occasions (that occur with some regularity) without a license?
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What are the obstacles/parameters for playing loud music? Cabaret license?
- What is the process for getting a food service license? Is there anything different for catering services? Cafe service?
- What are the parameters of having onsite childcare and/or a kids' play space?
INSURANCE
- What kind of insurance would we need/want for the space to cover damaged/stolen items and liability for any injuries?
CONTRACTING
- If we find a space that needs physical upgrades, what are the norms for working with contractors? How much can be done with volunteer/donated labor?
- What do we need to know about possibilities for sub-leasing space (to non-profits, for example) or renting the space for events (small or large). What kind of contracts should we have people sign in those instances?
- If we develop a resource library, how can we rent out equipment or let people use items in-house in a way that covers our asses?
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Lucas Shapiro
address: 70 south elliot pl., brooklyn, ny 11217
cell:
917.385.1254work:
718.852.2960