|
 West
Chester
October 26, 2009
Over the past several weeks you have
contacted my office in support of local
arts, historical and cultural organizations.
I’d like to update you on the final budget recently passed by
the Legislature and signed by Governor
Rendell.
Despite challenging times and an
exceptionally tight budget process, we
accomplished a number of goals that will
keep our local arts, historical
and cultural organizations strong.
First and foremost, we defeated the proposed
expansion of the sales tax to cultural
performances and venues.
And while funding for some cultural
activities and historical programs was cut,
we did secure:
-
$11 million for the Pennsylvania Grants
to the Arts program;
-
$992,000 for the Council on the Arts;
-
$3.1 million for Cultural Preservation
Assistance; and
-
$1.7 million for Museum Assistance
Grants.
These figures do amount to notable
reductions. But keep in mind that Senate
Bill 850 originally called for eliminating
all of these line items outright. I voted
against Senate Bill 850 and it was
ultimately defeated.
Like you, I know that historical, cultural
and arts programs are important both to the
education of our children and the economic
growth of countless communities across
Pennsylvania. That is why I continue to
strongly support these programs and have
consistently opposed cuts to their funding.
In support of our local
cultural organizations, I’ve created a
Reference Guide to Nonprofit Cultural
Organizations in my district. Whether you
are looking to display original work or
simply take in a live performance or art show,
look no further than this directory. Feel
free to browse it
online, or contact my West Chester
District Office to request a printed copy.
And as always, please don’t hesitate to
e-mail me at
andy@pasenate.com with any questions,
concerns or comments that you may have.
Sincerely,
Andrew E. Dinniman
State Senator – 19th District
|
