Public Funding

2 articles

Diverse community members enjoying vibrant public art and performances in a sunlit town square, symbolizing the importance of local arts funding.

Local arts funding is crucial for community identity, don't cut it.

At a recent Leon County Commission meeting, 50 residents signed up to speak about the possible defunding of the Council on Culture and Arts (COCA), sparking five hours of intense debate, according to

Elise Marrow·June 28, 2026

A modern performing arts center with diverse community members enjoying the public spaces outside, symbolizing the Sarasota Model of arts development.

What is the Sarasota Model for Community Arts Development?

Sarasota taxpayers are obligated to pay $88 million towards a new performing arts center, a project projected to cost between $260 million and $295 million, according to the Herald-Tribune .

Elise Marrow·May 12, 2026