Troutdale approves $12,000 sponsorship, in‑kind support for Cascadia Fine Arts Festival

The Troutdale City Council on Feb. 10 approved a $12,000 cash sponsorship and up to $3,000 in in‑kind city staff support for the Cascadia Fine Arts Festival as organizers described a revamped festival model intended to reduce costs and increase visitor attendance.

Festival representatives said they restructured operations after last year’s poor attendance, moved from a paid event coordinator to a volunteer committee of about 20 people, and shifted the event away from First Friday to a separate weekend in May. “We appreciate your interest in always supporting this arts festival,” Gail Stevens told the council, noting the group has secured nearly $13,000 in in‑kind donations and reduced staffing costs from about $35,000 to $18,000.

Organizers outlined sponsorship tiers that range from $500 up to $5,000, a marketing plan that includes a printed catalog and digital campaigns, and steps to prioritize local restaurants and businesses downtown. Ellen Green, joining remotely, said the festival expects roughly 80–85 artists after the jury process and plans to emphasize marketable artwork to attract buyers.

Councilors raised questions about fees and space allocation. Staff and organizers said artist fees last year were $275 plus a $35 jury fee; restaurants and downtown businesses can buy booth spaces and will receive catalog advertising and website placement. Organizers also said they are exploring grants to cover fully accessible restroom rentals, professional flaggers, and other safety measures.

The council motion to fund the festival passed by roll call. The city’s contribution is intended to support marketing and operational costs while the nonprofit organizers rely on volunteer staffing and in‑kind support to lower overall expenses. The festival is scheduled for a two‑day weekend in May, and organizers said they will return to staff and council with any significant changes to logistics or funding.