Commission backs downtown boundary for California Arts Council cultural-district application

The Community Culture and Arts Commission on July 28 voted 5-0 to recommend that the city pursue a California Arts Council Cultural District designation using the Downtown Specific Plan arts-and-entertainment district as the initial boundary, with an option to expand the district later. The commission also asked that the City Manager direct relevant staff to sign any required land-use approvals for the application.

Staff and community organizers reported the application is due Aug. 7 and that public outreach has included an in-person convening and an online survey to build the required cultural asset inventory. Staff said the draft application has been coordinated with California Arts Council staff and that the grant/recognition includes co-branding, technical support and a modest State grant (application notes a $10,000 state program award opportunity).

Commissioners discussed whether to confine the district to downtown or to include other culturally active neighborhoods. Most speakers recommended starting with the downtown arts-and-entertainment boundaries to meet the application deadline, with a clear statement that the district may be expanded later. Vice Chair Vidor and Commissioner Allen said a downtown-first approach aligns with the city’s existing planning documents and provides an executable boundary for the August application.

The motion directed staff to proceed with the downtown-specific-plan boundaries and to seek City Manager authorization for required land-use sign-offs. The commission noted that designation could help unlock technical assistance and additional funding opportunities for local arts groups if the state approves the application.