Several local arts groups got some bad news from Jefferson City this week. On Monday, six days into most local arts agencies’ fiscal year, several local arts groups found out the state has drastically decreased their allocations.
The Allied Arts Council was awarded $10,000 less than last year, a 40% decrease; the Saint Joseph Symphony $8,000 less; and Robidoux Resident Theatre was awarded $7,000 less.
The decreased award amounts are not due to lower scores or fewer funds received from the legislature, but because of a policy change by the Missouri Arts Council board on how funds are allocated. Most local arts organizations have already finalized budgets, which depend on Missouri Arts Council funding.
In a news release, the Allied Arts Council acknowledged it has just completed a successful Arts Fund drive, but points out that arts organizations depend on multiple funding sources to provide programming assistance.
Local arts organizations are passionate about the arts and the community. The affected arts agencies are looking for ways to tighten their budgets, but already operate on a shoestring. Today, many arts agencies are in a different place than they were two days ago. If you value the arts, please consider a gift to one of St. Joseph’s arts organizations. Your gift can help shrink the deficit and help the arts remain a vibrant part of our community.