DRAFT
Lawrence Cultural Arts Commission
Special Meeting
February 2, 2009 6:00 pm, Fire Station No. 5
Minutes
Attendees: Susan Craig, Christie Dobson, Donna Griffin, Amy Kelly, Dave Loewenstein, Jane Pennington, Kathy Porsch, John Reeves, and Joanne Renfro, Diane Stoddard (staff liaison)
Absent: Matthew Herren
Dave opened the meeting and there were introductions made of the new commissioners.
Dave asked Diane to provide background information. Diane informed the group about the budget cuts being discussed by the City as a result of the Governor’s proposed budget for FY 2010 (July 1, 2009). This could possibly include a 50% reduction in the 2009 budget and no source of revenue for 2010 programs.
The commissioners discussed their options and possible cuts to programs in the event that the 2009 budget would be affected. Dave indicated that he wanted to do something really responsible with the money that is left. He was thinking of giving the money to artists via grants rather than other LCAC programs. He thought of having a much more intensive grant program and hold off on the Phoenix Awards. Jane asked for an explanation of the Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition (ODSE) for the new members. Donna provided background on the ODSE and the costs associated for this program.
Jane mentioned the idea of seeking sponsorships for the ODSE. Donna wondered about seeing if the artists would be willing to keep art in place for another year. Jane agreed that this would be a good response. Donna indicated that a tour could also still be held without a reception to cut costs.
Amy explained the grant program. Jane agreed with Dave’s comments about the importance of placing funding in the grant program.
Jane made a motion to approach the current ODSE artists and ask if they would be willing to leave their art on display for an additional year with no additional compensation. Dave seconded the motion. Motion was approved unanimously.
Dave asked if the group wanted to appear at the City Commission meeting and what should be said. Also, he pointed out that there are other functions of the Cultural Arts Commission including Percent for Art, review of donated public art and the website. Donna added that the Percent for Art program wasn’t slated for elimination, but it would be likely that there wouldn’t be much construction in the next few years given the City’s budget situation. Amy agreed that even if the budget was cut, the function of the Cultural Arts Commission would continue.
Dave mentioned the need to follow through on the website given the grant that was awarded. Susan asked about the website. Donna explained what would be on the website. Dave indicated that he would send the link to the new website to everyone. Kathy asked if there was information on economic impact of the arts there. Dave indicated that the Americans for the Arts had a readiness kit regarding funding issues and the importance of the arts.
After discussion, Donna made a motion to send an e-mail to the City Commission regarding the budget discussion that the Lawrence Cultural Arts Commission understands the situation. Jane seconded the motion. Motion was passed unanimously.
Dave offered to start drafting the e-mail and distribute via Diane. Donna offered to call Matt to apprise him of the discussion. Dave mentioned the potential cuts to other arts agencies and it was suggested that the e-mail address concerns about cuts to arts in general. Donna indicated that she will contact the ODSE juror to explain the current situation. It was indicated that there may be more information available at the next meeting.
Kathy indicated that the highest public profile item is the ODSE and she was concerned that some pieces stay in place. Amy indicated that the grants also provided funding for a variety of other public arts programs. Amy is poised to send out e-mails about grants and asked about what she should say. It was suggested that in her e-mail that she explain the current situation.
Donna asked the group to think of some creative arts funding possibilities, such as sponsorships. Jane suggested a “Friends of the LCAC” group. Susan and Kathy wondered if the LCAC would appear in competition with other arts groups. Dave discussed the potential for federal stimulus funding, and a WPA-type project.
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:45 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane Stoddard
Staff Liaison