The Arts. The People.

I believe in the arts. I believe that children of all races and backgrounds should see plays, hear symphonies, and have the opportunity to create their own unique art. I believe that everyone should be able to witness the power of the arts without being priced out of the opportunity. I believe that all types and mediums of art should be in every neighborhood. No community should receive favored treatment. 

I believe that the county needs to consider and study the current request for funds from the Arts and Science Council. I don’t want to see funding without looking at the current organization. Is it top-heavy? Is current funding being used in the best interests of our community? What would be the depth of the board’s involvement in a new structure?

The county has a wonderful opportunity to approach funding in a unique manner. The Board of Commissioners can help to reinvigorate the role of the corporate community in the arts. Can current staffing be made available to lend expertise and skills? Can members of the community become involved, on a street level, without having to join a board? The citizens of Mecklenburg County have recently spoken on this topic and I believe that we are called upon to listen to ideas and seek to find answers that strive to be effective and provide opportunities for positive growth. 

The human needs - housing, medical services, schools - are many. We are called upon to make our first commitment to the crisis needs of our citizens. On this, we must be unwavering. 

It is my hope that the current board will carefully review the request from the Arts and Science Council, and in doing so, may they not lose sight of those standing in front of and amongst us all.