Commission slows down increase in funding for the sculpture trail
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Augusta, Ga (WJBF) Ten downtown sculptures are making a lot of noise, and some city leaders are eager to make them a permanent part of the downtown area.
“Some of the city leaders who were at the grand opening were very excited about this project and basically wanted to buy them all, so the arts council recommended that the city buy five,” said Brenda Durant, director. General of the Greater Augusta Arts Council.
Under the original agreement, the city only agreed to spend $ 25 thousand to buy a statue, but a committee of the commission recommended spending $ 100,000 for five statues, but some claiming the city had to. other needs.
“It’s something that we don’t really need right now and that we are focusing on some of the things that would improve the quality of life across the city,” said Commissioner Dennis Williams.
To widen the sculpture trail, a committee recommends $ 100,000 this year, for statues an additional $ 100,000 in 2023, and perhaps another $ 100,000 in 2025.
“This is a big change and a big leap in numbers, I think we need to bring it back to the table and have new discussions,” Commissioner Catherine Smith McKnight said.
Some commissioners said voters had already approved $ 1 million in sales tax for walkway sculptures that had not progressed.
“And we cannot see to make it operational. I am reluctant to give extra money to try to do other things with statues,” said Commissioner Ben Hasan.
Commissioners are watching their steps now when it comes to the downtown sculpture trail. in Augusta George Eskola WJBF NewsChannel six.
Commissioners are voting for the Arts Council to make a presentation in 90 days on the front door sculptures and the sculpture trail plans.