Experts appeal to St. Pete City Council to allocate 1% of budget to fund the arts

On August 1, representatives of the Warehouse Arts District Association and other arts advocates and patrons of the arts packed the seats at City Hall to appeal for 1% of the annual budget to fund the arts.

1% of the annual budget would offset the loss non-profits like the Warehouse Arts District incurred after Gov. DeSantis unexpectedly vetoed $32 million in anticipated funding, jeopardizing the efficacy of institutions like the Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA) that provide equitable and affordable studio space and arts programs.

Arts leaders and advocates argue that the arts positively impact the economy, garnering significant revenue for the city, state, and fed, as well as anchoring St. Pete’s character as an arts destination. A 2023 economic impact report conducted by John Collins states a total city-wide economic impact of $178,223,493 from art-related businesses.

WADA calls for equitable distribution of funds

Member of the WADA board, Barclay Harless, asks City Council, “If you think that the arts have contributed 1% to the identity of the city, is it not the right thing to do to support the arts in their time of need with 1%?”

Executive Director of WADA, Markus Gottschlich reports to I Love The Burg, “1% for the arts is only then helpful if it means 1% for arts non-profits. Secondly, a fair, equitable, and transparent process needs to be put into place to distribute these funds.”

The city has yet to determine whether it will allocate funds for the arts, or if that funding will amount to a full 1%. If funds are allocated, they will not be dispersed until Fall 2025 at the earliest.

WADA is shutting down non-profit galleries on Aug 10

In the meantime, WADA is shutting down its non-profit galleries and operations on August 10. According to WADA’s monthly digest memo, the move to shut down the galleries is partially in protest and partially due to associated costs.

Prior to the open forum on August 1, City Council member Gina Driscoll had invited arts leadership to appeal. The appeal to City Hall follows the expert panelists’ discussion that took place on July 23 at Soft Water Gallery (read that story here). This appeal is not the end. WADA and other arts organizations continue to ramp up advocacy efforts across the board.