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Senators debate state role in proposed central art museum; resolution circled
Summary
A proposal for a centrally located art and history museum prompted concern from some senators that approving a resolution could be interpreted as a commitment to future state funding or ownership; supporters pointed to private and bank backing and said the state could appropriately assist if asked. The measure was circled for later consideration.
An unidentified speaker opened a floor discussion on a proposal to create a large, centrally located museum to expose more Utahns to art and history, saying the project would rely heavily on private support and would not be "very expensive." The sponsor or proponent emphasized preservation of both art and archives and described plans to combine two buildings and storage into a single facility.
Senator Hickman warned that approving a resolution could create an inference that the Legislature is endorsing or will help fund the museum in the future, saying he could not support a resolution that might commit the state to funding or ownership. "I really believe that ... the inference is going to may be made if we approve this resolution that we are actively supporting and willing to help fund this in the future," he said on the floor.
In response, the chair of the Economic Development Appropriations Committee (floor speaker) said the panel oversees museum grants across the state and described this project as likely to have broad cultural impact; he noted a foundation and private donors (including Zions Bank) were already contributing. He said: "I believe that when they do come to us for money, it probably will be totally appropriate to help them." The sponsor also said some offices now housed at another facility (referred to on the floor as the Glendening home) may move into the new facility and that existing exhibits (mentioned as at the Rio Grande) could be consolidated.
After questions about whether the plan would eliminate existing museum spaces or simply consolidate offices, a motion to "circle" the resolution (hold it) was moved and approved by voice vote. The presiding officer announced the motion passed and the bill was circled for further consideration.
What happens next: circling preserves the measure for later action; proponents indicated they expect to seek formal funding requests in the future, and the Economic Development Appropriations Committee would be the likely venue for any state funding request.
