Drafter
Clerk 01/22/2009
Title
A MOTION supporting the creation of cultural access funds, which would increase access to scientific, cultural, artistic and heritage experiences throughout Washington state and the Puget Sound region.
Body
WHEREAS, access to cultural experiences strengthens communities and individuals, and
WHEREAS, communities and regions that are home to vibrant cultural organizations are more competitive for high-paying jobs and high-quality workers, and enjoy greater economic prosperity, and
WHEREAS, studies show that students, who are engaged in cultural activities, are less likely to drop out of school and are more likely to excel in science and math studies, and
WHEREAS, Washington has a rich and varied science and cultural community, ranging from community heritage sites to regional theaters, world-class zoos, performing arts and museums, and
WHEREAS, these science and cultural organizations are the centerpieces of many communities, enrich the residents and provide tremendous benefits to individual communities and the state, and
WHEREAS, the residents of the Puget Sound region believe that cultural and scientific organizations have a significant impact on the quality of life, are an important part of the social fabric of the region and want additional access to science and cultural programs, and
WHEREAS, Puget Sound science and cultural organizations generate approximately $1.7 billion in annual economic activity statewide, creating 41,000 jobs statewide, paying $776 million in annual wages and generating $73 million in state tax revenue, and
WHEREAS, in recognition of all of these benefits, the Prosperity Partnership Cultural Taskforce is proposing state legislation that would enable communities across the state to create publicly funded cultural access funds, and
WHEREAS, the goal of the legislation is to increase access to cultural experiences, from arts organizations to science centers and zoos, for children and adults across Washington state, and
WHEREAS, funds would be used to provide cultural education programs for students and residents, designated free days, discounted tickets, discounted services and funding for emerging cultural programs in small towns and other underserved areas;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT MOVED by the Council of King County:
A. King County recognizes the significant benefits to individuals and communities derived from increased access to cultural experiences, such as zoos, aquariums, museums, heritage sites, the performing arts and other cultural experiences;
B. King County recognizes the tremendous contribution that cultural organizations make to individuals, communities, the region and Washington State and is committed to supporting them; and
C. King County and the Prosperity Partnership Cultural Taskforce share many of the same goals and objectives. Further, the county supports the Prosperity Partnership
Cultural Taskforce in its efforts to encourage the state legislature to pass authorizing legislation to allow the creation of cultural access funds within the state.