Indio inching closer to expanding Goldenvoice music festivals

Goldenvoice, the producer of Coachella Fest and Stagecoach Country Music Festival, presented its Environmental Impact Report to the Indio Planning Commission at a special meeting on Thursday night. The Commission approved the EIR and voted 5-0 in support of the the group’s request to host more festivals.

Awaiting final approval from the City Council, Goldenvoice hopes the city will grant it a long-term festival permit, allowing it to host up to five music festival events each year from 2014 to 2030.

“The real main issue for us is the noise,” said Jim Turner, a six-year resident of Indio.

Many neighbors voiced support and concerns of Goldenvoice’s EIR, which it called a “problem-solving tool.” It’s looking to address and ease some of the most significant festival complaints dealing with transportation, sound and air quality.

The EIR shows Goldenvoice plans to adjust concert bass levels, shuttle more festival-goers to and from the venue, and increase dust control measures.

Rebecca Shields lives directly across from Coachella’s main stage. She says years of issues on her property were finally settled when her community opened communication and met with Goldenvoice Vice President Skip Paige personally.

“I think they care about the community and responded immediately. They listened and continue to do so,” said Shields.

Another part of the music festival plan is to increase attendance from 95,000 to 99,000 at Coachella Fest. For Stagecoach, 65,000 to 75,000 attendees.

“I think it’s great revenue,” said Turner.

He says he supports the festivals and their economic boost to the Valley, he just hopes the city will better enforce regulations.

“If the cut off is 1:30, cut it off at 1:30. Have someone from the city pull the plug if they have to,” said Turner.

The Planning Commission will make a recommendation to the City Council for a final decision next month.