Hutto Arts Today introduces board, seeks grant support and May 15 follow-up with council

Hutto Arts Today, a local nonprofit arts organization, introduced its board and outlined fundraising needs and programming goals during the Hutto City Council work session on April 17, 2025. The group said it is funded by donations, is a registered 501(c)(3), and asked to return for a fuller presentation on May 15.

The presenters included Lizzie, treasurer for Hutto Arts Today; Elizabeth Benora, professional sculptor and small-business owner; Catherine Purnell, who the group identified as director of painting; and Felix Stibbets, creative director and founder of the design firm 44 Design and director of marketing and social media for Hutto Arts Today. Council members present included Councilman Porterfield, Councilman Thompson and Councilman Thornton.

"My name is Lizzie, and I am the treasurer for Hutto Arts Today," Lizzie said, introducing the group and its work. She said the organization currently relies on community donations and is aiming to begin applying for grants. "Currently just donations. And these are just either people, you know, putting it just random people, community members donating, but we'd like to start writing grants. We'd like to start, letting city people know that we're able to take funds," Lizzie said.

Elizabeth Benora described her experience as a professional sculptor and small-business owner and said she wants to expand local arts opportunities. Catherine Purnell spoke about teaching and community workshops, saying art "makes the neighborhood happy" and contributes to residents' well-being.

Felix Stibbets outlined the group's marketing and programming background and told the council the board plans to return for a longer presentation. "Were gonna come back May 15, and we're gonna come back," Stibbets said, asking for a standing slot and noting the group was originally allotted 45 minutes for a full presentation.

A city representative asked whether Hutto Arts Today is a nonprofit and whether it is a 501(c)(3). A presenter replied, "Yes." Council staff discussed presentation length; the council suggested a shorter window of roughly 30 minutes on May 15 to allow time for questions and discussion.

No formal actions or votes were taken during the presentation. The presenters said they will return to the council on May 15 and plan to present program details, examples and funding requests at that meeting.

The council work session proceeded to other agenda items after the group concluded its remarks.