Passage of Issue 8 will ensure continued arts and culture vibrancy

If you've visited a museum or gallery, attended a performance, or taken a class from an arts and cultural organization in Cuyahoga County in the last decade, chances are good that arts and cultural organization receives funding from a penny-and-a-half tax on cigarettes the voters approved in 2006. Since the tax went into effect in 2007, $125 million has been disbursed in operating and project support grants throughout Cuyahoga County allowing the county's arts and culture sector to survive (and now thrive) through one of the most difficult economic periods in recent memory. The tax is up for renewal on the Nov. 3 ballot, and it is important that we continue that critical support for this asset by voting yes on Issue 8.

The proceeds from the passage of Issue 8 will continue the critical operating support that has enabled BAYarts and the Lake Erie Nature & Science to redefine their relationships with our community. Together they are providing new and dynamic programming and life experiences for children and adults from our community and beyond. As a resident of Bay Village for the last 13 years, it's been amazing to watch these transformations unfold. And the experiences they have provided my children have been incredibly meaningful.

Passage of Issue 8 will ensure that arts and culture continue to play a meaningful role in Cleveland's renaissance – reviving our neighborhoods, enlivening education and contributing to a better quality of life for all of the county's residents. Issue 8 is not a tax increase. Please join me in voting yes on 8.

– Megan Van Voorhis, Bay Village
Chief Operating Officer, Community Partnership for Arts and Culture

Megan Van Voorhis

In my work life, I'm the Chief Operating Officer of the Community Partnership for Arts and Culture. I'm a mother of two and I live in Bay Village, one of the most charming spots in the world.

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Volume 7, Issue 20, Posted 10:06 AM, 10.20.2015