Local theater educator requests city support of $500—1,000 for summer youth program

Kaylee Hill, identifying herself as a theater-education student and granddaughter of a local resident, asked the Gunnison City Council for financial support for a weeklong summer youth theater intensive scheduled July 7—12.

Hill described the camp as a locally run, weeklong program that began after a high-school theater teacher reduced duties in 2015 and that aims to give rural students low-cost access to theater education. She said the camp has three tracks (elementary-age basics, a standard track for grades 6—12, and a new "Backstage Basics" track to teach lighting and soundboard skills), anticipates about 40 students this year, and tries to keep admission low while paying counselors modestly. She said past years' enrollment grew from 11 to about 30 and that this year she anticipates roughly 40 participants.

Hill requested between $500 and $1,000 to help cover counselor pay, facility rental and other costs; she said the South Hamilton School (facility) has offered space in prior years but she did not yet have a full donation pledge for this year. She invited council members to attend the final performance on July 12 and said the program lists donation and sponsorship options on its website and GoFundMe page.

Council members expressed support and asked logistical questions about dates, age tracks and facility donation. One council member said they could likely provide $500 as a one-time assistance and asked Hill to submit details. The meeting transcript records supportive remarks from multiple council members; there was no formal appropriation or recorded vote in the transcript associated with this request.