UTICA — Film Utica, Utica’s first ever fully operational film commission, received its final approval and will operate out of the Stanley Theatre, 259 Genesee St.

“It is exciting to start building this business for Utica,” Stanley Theatre Executive Director Lisa Wilsey said. “Film and television production has been missing in the economics of the region and we are excited to spearhead this venture that will contribute to our tax base, create jobs, attract new business and contribute to economic stability in the region.”

Film Utica’s strategic objectives are to attract motion picture and television productions to shoot on location in Utica and throughout the region and to offer support so that productions can accomplish their work seamlessly. With the Stanley Theatre also being a state-of-the-art New York State Qualified Production Facility (QPF), this gives production teams an added bonus to leverage the generous tax credits for both filming and postproduction.  

Legislation was introduced by Utica Common Council President Michael Galime and formalized by the council in June 2021.

The board of the film commission consists of three members: Film Commissioner Paul Buckley – appointed by Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri, Wilsey and business agent of Union Local ITEA 1 David DeCola.

Having worked closely over the last couple of years with New York state to be formally recognized, Neil Reilly, deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Motion Picture and Television Development at the Empire State Development Corporation (ESD), gave the final nod of approval.

“The economic impact of a film commission can be outstanding,” Wilsey said. “We already have two projects on the horizon to film here at the end of the year. Film Utica has been lightning out of the gate and we couldn’t be more thrilled.”

To learn more about Film Utica, visit www.filmutica.com.