Poughkeepsie arts commission approves letter supporting Engine Arts' NYSCA grant application

The Poughkeepsie Public Arts Commission voted to approve a letter of support for Engine Arts’ application to the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), the commission said during its meeting. The commission chair asked for a motion; a member moved to approve the letter and another member seconded; the motion passed on a voice vote. The chair said she would sign the letter and circulate copies to commissioners and the mayor’s office. Why it matters: Engine Arts has previously supported city events including Juneteenth and the commission’s endorsement could strengthen a state grant submission. What happened: Commission members discussed their past experience with Engine Arts and noted the organization’s recent support for city performances and youth programming. No conditions or funding commitments were made by the commission; the action approved was only a letter of support. Votes and formal action: The meeting record shows a moved motion, a second, and an affirmative voice vote approving the letter. No roll-call tally was recorded in the transcript. Background and next steps: The commission indicated the signed letter will be forwarded to the mayor’s office and to Engine Arts. NYSCA decisions and any resulting funding would be subject to the state council’s grant processes. The commission did not appropriate funds or promise municipal match in the meeting.