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Ojai Arts Commission asks council to weave creative economy into general plan, proposes art center, funding and staff support
Summary
At a Sept. 9 joint session the Ojai Arts Commission presented its five‑year plan and urged the City Council to integrate arts and the creative economy into the General Plan, consider dedicated funding (including a proposed cultural contribution of TOT revenue), and add staff support or a cultural affairs function.
The Ojai Arts Commission told the City of Ojai Council on Sept. 9 that its five‑year strategic plan seeks to make arts a central part of the city’s economic diversification strategy and asked council to consider new funding and staffing structures to implement the plan.
Commission Chair Smitty West outlined the commission’s immediate objectives: establish a centrally located, city‑sponsored art center for studios, galleries, workshops and performance; commission a landmark public artwork to celebrate Ojai’s history and culture; and expand grants, education and mentorship programs. "Our immediate objectives keep us grounded to ambitious goals... to establish a centrally located city sponsored art center," West said.
The commission described a 119‑step Gantt chart the group uses to track its five‑year plan and highlighted recent accomplishments including an online, fillable grant application, expanded outreach and a suite of professional enrichment seminars for local creatives. The commission also reported it completed Brown Act training and standardized budgeting procedures.
Funding and grants
Commissioners said the arts grants budget was increased…
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