In this petition, I will address the imperative for Saratoga Comic Con to expand its venue size. Not only does this expansion address accessibility concerns for disabled individuals, ensuring a more inclusive environment, but it also serves to enhance the overall appeal of the convention by offering a broader spectrum of activities (panels) and vendors. By accommodating a larger venue, Saratoga Comic Con can attract a more diverse array of attendees, thereby revitalizing interest and participation in the convention.

My close friend and I are regular attendees of Saratoga Comic Con. We love the event, but our experience is often marred by a significant problem - lack of adequate space. Both of us have conditions that make it difficult to stand for long periods of time, and finding a place to sit down is almost impossible. This not only affects our enjoyment but also exacerbates my friends  chronic pain and other similar medical conditions both of us have. 

Our findings reveal that individuals who utilize Mobility Aids encounter significant challenges navigating the Con due to the sheer volume of attendees in the space the Con is curretly held in. This impediment detracts from the overall experience, diminishing accessibility and inclusivity for wheelchair and other similar Mobility Aid users. Expanding the venue space is essential not only for accommodating a larger number of attendees but also for ensuring a more accessible and enjoyable experience for individuals with disabilities. 

The issue isn't just personal; we've been made aware of the desire within our community for a designated quiet space, ideally furnished with ample seating arrangements. Such a facility would cater not only to individuals with physical disabilities, who require frequent seating, but also to those with mental disabilities such as autism, who may experience sensory overload in noisy or crowded environments.

When it comes to safety, increased attendance at the convention has led to overcrowding and has created hazards. This year the Fire Marshall had to cancel the after-party, one of the biggest draws of interest to this Con, due to fire safety concerns related to overcrowding. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel have also reported difficulties in reaching injured attendees because there's so little room for them to move around at a quick speed to assure safety.

On a slightly different note; Saratoga Con has reached its 10-year milestone, yet with escalating ticket prices and a limited array of activities, coupled with a prevalence of repetitive vendors, attendee interest has waned. While the introduction of new panels is appreciated, the primary allure remains centered on the presence of voice actors. However, this reliance on a singular draw has led to a growing disinterest among potential attendees. 

Expanding the venue space can facilitate the inclusion of a greater number of vendors, thereby augmenting attendee engagement as they explore a wider array of offerings. Additionally, the availability of more rooms for panels can ignite interest among potential attendee hosts, with the possibility of fostering a diverse range of topics and activities that can be incorporated into the Cons activities outside of what the con already puts on themselves. This increase in variety and capacity not only enriches the attendee experience but also elevates overall interest in the convention by offering a more dynamic and inclusive platform for engagement.

Please sign this petition to advocate for Saratoga Con expanding the venue size. The convention will greatly benefit from accommodating attendees, reducing overcrowding, and mitigating safety risks associated with large crowds. A larger venue allows for greater diversity in vendors and panels, enriching the attendee experience and fostering a more vibrant and engaging atmosphere. Your signature supports the push for both safety improvements and the expansion of venue space, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for all participants.