Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Arts And Culture topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves $14,428 for Merced County arts center upgrade amid questions about district funding and city role
Summary
The Board approved a $14,428 request to upgrade lighting/equipment at the Merced County MAC, receiving public testimony on the MAC's countywide role and debates over invoice math, whether the city or a foundation should lead funding, and district special project fund policy. The motion passed after supervisors sought stronger city/County Parks & Rec collaboration and invoice verification.
The Merced County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 28 approved a $14,428 funding request to upgrade technical equipment at the Merced County MAC (arts center), following public comment from arts leaders and community members and extended board discussion about the appropriate funding source.
Colton Dennis, executive director of the MAC, said the facility hosts countywide arts and education programming and argued the requested investment in lighting and equipment would improve safety, accessibility and the MAC’s ability to attract performances that support tourism and the local economy. “This investment will further enrich learning experiences and opportunities for young artists,” Dennis said.
Several speakers described programs the MAC supports, from youth theater to countywide arts grants and murals. Supporters including Joe Hypes, Rob Abtte and representatives from United Way said upgraded equipment would help generate sustainable revenue and expand county programming.
Board members probed invoice numbers and asked why the city or a community foundation was not paying first. Supervisor Silvera and others said the attachments and pricing were unclear; Dennis said some last‑minute adjustments were made and the organization trimmed parts of the request after finding additional funding, and that the MAC is a 501(c)(3) and does not currently operate a foundation.
Supervisor McDaniel asked about collaboration with County Parks & Rec; the MAC and supervisors agreed to coordinate with Parks & Rec and the city to ensure the project meets county policy requirements. After discussion and a friendly amendment to include Delhi park items in the strategic plan motion earlier, the board approved the funding request. Supervisors asked county staff to verify invoices and ensure appropriate subrecipient agreements or city cooperation where required.
What’s next: Staff will work through procurement and subrecipient processes and confirm invoice details and matching funds before final disbursement.
