Christopher Dwyer, executive director of the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA), presented to the council on Oct. 25 and requested the city consider increasing its annual support by 25–35 percent to offset two decades of inflation, cover urgent capital needs (notably a roof replacement currently on hold), and modernize theatrical systems.

Dwyer said BCPA’s operating budget has remained nearly flat since 2005 (citing a budget of about $480,000 in 2005 and $490,000 proposed for 2026), leaving the center with reduced buying power. He identified the roof as the highest capital priority and described a domino effect—roof, then HVAC and carpet replacement—stressing that capital work is currently constrained by the roof’s status. Dwyer also said BCPA and a revived Bowie Regional Arts Vision Association (BRAVA) will pursue 501(c)(3) grant opportunities and other revenue sources; BRAVA will serve as the center’s fiscal sponsor for some grant applications.

Dwyer asked the council to consider raising Bowie’s historic $80,000 annual contribution by 25–35 percent to help restore purchasing power, partially offset minimum‑wage increases and support immediate capital projects. Council members expressed appreciation for the center’s role as a cultural hub, discussed the likely need for renegotiating the memorandum of understanding with Prince George’s County Public Schools and suggested the funding request be considered as part of the city’s upcoming budget process. Councilman Brady proposed a specific near‑term increase (indicative comment proposing about $25,000 additional city support), and other councilmembers encouraged collaboration with PGCPS, county and philanthropic partners.

Why it matters: BCPA serves regional school and community events; its capital needs (roof, HVAC, theatrical systems) affect accessibility and safety for performances and community programming. Council members indicated support and directed staff to consider the request in the next budget cycle and pursue collaborative funding options.

Provenance (transcript excerpts): Presentation introduction (transcript block starting ~3809.75). Dwyer: “I am a proud citizen of Bowie…We are a cultural hub of Prince George's County…and we support all the different cultural initiatives.” (transcript block starting ~3827.74). Funding request details and BRAVA fiscal sponsorship (transcript blocks starting ~4263.65 and ~4366.58). Council discussion and general direction to consider inflationary increase in budget (transcript blocks starting ~5472.80 to ~5676.56).