Nancy Stannard, president of Mountain Artists of Teller County, told the Woodland Park City Council that the Mountain Arts Festival — held the second weekend in August and recognized by the city as a signature event — generated more than $8,000 in revenue in the form of sales taxes that went to state and local coffers.

Stannard said the organization, founded in 1989, has more than 70 members and runs several community programs: a juried student art show for middle and high school students with awards and gallery display at the Woodland Park Library; a scholarship for graduating high school students pursuing post‑secondary art education; donated supplies for the Parks & Rec kids camp; member‑taught community classes; and donations of original art for the library’s “Night at the Library” silent auction. She also announced a new community mini‑grant program that will award up to $250 per applicant per year to help residents participate in art classes or workshops.

“Arts strengthen the economy. Arts improve individual well‑being and unite communities,” Stannard told council. She highlighted the group’s work supporting youth and connecting artists with the community.

Council members commended the group’s programs. A council member noted the festival this year hosted over 90 artists in Memorial Park, and Stannard said the average sale per artist was about $1,000 with variation by vendor. Stannard said the group plans to reopen applications for next year's juried festival in the first part of the year.

The council received the presentation as information; no formal action was required.

Details: Mountain Artists began in 1989, has 70+ members, operates an annual Mountain Arts Festival (second weekend in August), runs a juried student show and awards a scholarship, supports Parks & Rec with art supplies, and will offer a new mini‑grant of up to $250 annually for community members to attend arts classes.