Business development committee recommends $10,500 in cultural grants to full council

The Bangor City Council business development committee voted to recommend five awards totaling $10,500 from the Commission on Cultural Development, sending the package to the full council for final approval.

Economic development director Ann Crete told the committee the twice‑yearly grant program supports small arts and cultural projects and individual artists. Staff recommended awards of $1,500 to the Bangor Arts Collaborative for advertising and supplies for a December 13 festival and holiday kickoff; $3,000 to the Bangor Symphony Orchestra to expand a music‑and‑wellness series of chamber concerts; $2,500 to a local theater company to stage two of John Cariani’s plays; $1,500 to the Robinson Ballet for a mid‑December production; and $2,000 to another theater group to purchase and install stage lighting. Crete said the five awards total $10,500 and that about $9,581 would remain for the spring grant round.

A councilor asked staff to confirm that grantees hold current 501(c)(3) status and file required 990 forms; Crete said staff would double‑check nonprofit documentation. Another member questioned whether the program should purchase fixed assets, such as lighting, noting the grants historically fund programming rather than capital equipment. “I have an issue with buying fixed assets for people,” a councilor said, adding that grants should demonstrate clear community benefit.

Chair Councilor Leonard asked for a motion to recommend the grants; a motion to do so was made and seconded. During a roll call, Councilor Fish voted yes, Councilor Hartant yes, Councilor Falloon yes and Councilor Mallor voted no; the chair indicated the recommendation passed and would go to the full council.

The committee asked staff to verify nonprofit status for grantees and to confirm whether capital purchases are allowable under the program rules before the item reaches the full council.