Recommendation 20210315-4.b.ii: To approve two new Full Time Employees (FTE) with adequate funding, for EDD's Cultural Arts Division — original pdf

Recommendation

ARTS COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20210315-4.b.ii Seconded By: Commissioner Amy Mok Date: 3-15-2021 Subject: Arts Commission FY22 Budget Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner Lulu Flores Recommendation Recommendation to approve two new Full Time Employees (FTE) with adequate funding, for the Economic Development Department's Cultural Arts Division in the FY22 budget. Description of Recommendation to Council Our Commission recommends that the City include two new full-time employees (FTE) with adequate funding, in the FY22 budget for the Economic Development Department's Cultural Arts Division. One FTE will be a Community Engagement Specialist/Consultant for the Art In Public Places program. The other will be a Community Engagement Specialist/Consultant for the Cultural Arts Funding program. Rationale: Members of the Arts Community, especially those from historically underrepresented and underfunded groups, are facing continuing financial challenges such as housing, affordable creative spaces, low incomes and access to opportunity and growth. Cultural Arts Division programs provide opportunities to alleviate some of the challenges. The information is complex and dense. New applicants usually require assistance in determining their eligibility and meeting milestones throughout the process. CAD administrators conduct Information Sessions and Open Office Hours to provide assistance. Invitations depend on channels that reach existing applicants or potential applicants that are already knowledgeable about the programs. A Community Engagement Specialist (or Consultant) will provide the communication and outreach skills needed to inform and assist potential applicants. Thus, relieving CAD administrators of these additional tasks to focus on their primary job functions. The Community Engagement Specialist will also bring additional strategies to address equitable access to CAD programs. 1 of 2 10-0 Vote For: Commissioner Jaime Castillo, Chair Commissioner Michelle Polgar, Vice Chair Commissioner Brett Barnes Commissioner Lulu Flores Commissioner Bears Rebecca Fonte Commissioner Felipe Garza Commissioner kYmberly Keeton Commissioner Amy Mok Commissioner Rick van Dyke Commissioner Celina Zisman Against: none Abstain: none Absent: none Attest: Anne-Marie McKaskle-Davis, Arts Commission Staff Liaison 2 of 2