BUILDING SUPPORT

Ensuring a sustainable future for Northeast Ohio’s cultural assets through public and private partnerships

Arts, Culture and County Reform

In November 2009, Cuyahoga County voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure to convert Cuyahoga County to a charter form of government. This new leadership structure will have a profound impact on the way business is done in Cuyahoga County. Moreover, the transition to this new form of government will present opportunities for the arts and culture sector to engage more deeply in County affairs.

Northeast Ohio’s arts and culture assets contribute significantly to the region’s prosperity, through their impact on the economy, education and community development. Recognizing this, Cuyahoga County voters made a substantial investment in their arts and culture sector through Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. The future of that important revenue stream will be impacted considerably by the charter form of government, through the appointment of new board members for Cuyahoga Arts and Culture and any future renewal ballot measures. To that end, it is critical that the arts and culture sector take steps to be informed and engaged in the transition process.

On January 15, 2010, the Community Partnership for Arts and Culture hosted an Arts and Cultural Roundtable on this topic. More than 100 individuals attended the event to hear from Mayor Bruce Akers, City of Pepper Pike; Former Mayor Judy Rawson, City of Shaker Heights; and Galen Schuerlein, Vice President, Burges and Burges Strategists.

Please click here to view a summary of the meeting’s themes.

In the meantime, to learn more about the transition to the charter form of government, and to volunteer, visit the County Charter Transition Advisory Group website.

To learn more about the requirements for running for County Executive or County Council, visit the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections website.