An Office of Arts and Culture was a direct result of the ArtsMarket Cultural Plan for the City of Sparks in 1999.  Due to the lack of a funding source, the Arts and Culture Committee disbanded many years ago.

Our new goal is to recruit volunteers who are seasoned arts advocates with background and experience working with government staff, elected officials and a variety of art groups.  Ideally, potential volunteers will have a full understanding of being an arts advocate within the city’s environment and structure; be forward thinking in programming for the arts; and prior experience on a non-profit or government board.  It is recommended that the ACAC consist of five (5) community volunteers and one non-voting staff member from the Parks and Recreation Department for a total of six (6) Members.

Once established, the vision is for the ACAC to develop a team of arts experts and citizens for public input to create a five year plan.  Policy will be created by the ACAC with approval of key city staff representing the Parks and Recreation, Legal, and Planning Departments as well as Risk Management.

The primary objective of the ACAC will be to provide a plan and guidance for all arts and culturally related activities on public property or projects utilizing city resources.  Other objectives may include: Create mission statement; identify funding; develop plan; identify partners; develop temporary public art program; and seek out small, manageable self-funded projects.

An important element of this program will be to differentiate the City of Sparks from other cities and their arts programs. The program should identify and celebrate the uniqueness of Sparks by blending our historical and industrial sides with our love family and community oriented events.

Council may elect not to approve Resolutio No. 3296 establishing the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee.

I move to approve Resolution No. 3296 establishing the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee as presented by staff.