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Committee approves $794,164 arts budget amendment to fund Greer Garson feasibility study
Summary
The Quality of Life Committee approved a budget amendment to move lodging-tax and fund-balance dollars to the Arts & Culture Department to support ongoing arts initiatives and a feasibility study for the Greer Garson Theatre; staff said the study will clarify building needs and operational scenarios.
The Santa Fe Quality of Life Committee approved a budget amendment on April 2 to transfer funds into the Arts & Culture Department to support ongoing arts initiatives and a feasibility study of the Greer Garson Theatre.
Chelsea Johnson, Arts & Culture director, told the committee the city issued an RFP and interviewed two finalists for a feasibility study that would assess what the Greer Garson building needs to be operable and evaluate ownership and management scenarios. The study is expected to be completed within approximately four months after a contract is issued.
Why it matters: Committee members said the study is intended to resolve unanswered questions from an earlier negotiation and provide the information needed before entering another exclusive-negotiation agreement or disposition discussion.
Details and committee discussion
- Amount and funding: The motion and materials discussed a proposed transfer and use of lodging-tax revenue and unspent FY24 funds. The agenda language listed $794,164 as the proposed transfer to the Arts & Culture FY25 budget for ongoing initiatives and the Greer Garson feasibility study. Councilor Michael Garcia questioned line-item subtotals and staff said they would verify sums and provide corrected paperwork if needed.
- Feasibility study scope and timeline: Johnson said the study will examine both physical renovation needs and possible organizational management models and that selected consultants would deliver a detailed report within about four months to inform next steps.
- Background: Committee discussion noted a prior agreement related to the Greer Garson that "fell apart" and that the study seeks to capture lessons and provide clearer expectations for future partners.
Vote and next steps
The committee approved the amendment by roll call. Staff said they will confirm the accounting details and return any clarifications to council and the finance office.
Ending: The feasibility study is intended to give the city and potential operators a clearer, objective assessment before the next phase of negotiations or an RFP for stewardship of the Greer Garson Theatre.
