 National Association of Counties * Washington, D.C. Vol. 31, No. 15 * August 9, 1999 Previous story | Table of Contents | Next story Economic development, arts go hand in hand By Mary Ann Barton
By supporting the arts – especially a varied menu that might include local ballet, opera and theater companies – you’re sure to boost your county’s economy, according to William J. Ivey, chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, who spoke to NACo delegates at the Opening General Session on Sunday, July 18. "A county that possesses a healthy inventory of the arts attracts new business," said Ivey. "After 35 years, we know the arts contribute to our communities." He pointed to St. Louis’ arch as an example of a public sculpture that provides an identity for a community and serves as a magnet, bringing tourists to the area. Some county officials might think their residents don’t want to pay for the arts. But Ivey says that isn’t so. Taxpayers are willing to pay, he said, highlighting an example in Colorado, where residents in a six-county area decided in 1988 to pay a 1/10 of 1 percent sales tax to fund non-profit arts in the area. In 1994, he said, they decided to renew the tax. There are similar efforts, he said, in Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City and Fresno. Ivey said the benefits of a thriving arts community not only affect an area’s economy, but its social fabric as well. A decrease of arts funding in the nation’s schools is disconcerting, he said. "I am alarmed by this trend. There won’t be audiences available for music, literature and dance." In his address, Ivey said he is seeking increased funding for the arts that would target communities that lack a significant arts presence. The Department of Justice’ Youth Arts Partnership, he said, is working to fund programs for at-risk kids in Portland, San Antonio and Atlanta. The program brings kids face to face with artists and their work. "The lessons learned can help counties come up with solutions to other problems," he said. The arts also help children achieve in other disciplines. For instance, studies show that children who learn about music often excel at math, he said. In his remarks, Ivey also thanked county officials for their aid. "I want to take this opportunity to thank Betty Lou Ward for her strong support of the arts. She’s been a marvelous leader on behalf of arts in America," he said. "I’m delighted that Mr. Gray has affirmed his intentions to promote arts and economic development." Ivey also thanked former NACo President Michael Hightower, Fulton County, Ga. Commissioner, for his congressional testimony in support of the arts. |
