The Township Community Arts Council got a financial boost Monday.
Esquimalt council doubled its financial commitment to the group by agreeing to a further $10,000 grant and $5,000 in in-kind services. The money is in addition to the $15,000 the township awarded the group earlier this year.
“It’s money well spent,” said Mayor Barb Desjardins. “It [arts council] created such a buzz and energy in the community.”
The arts council started last year and was expecting to host two events: Memorial Park Music Fest, which featured local band and singers for six weeks throughout the summer, and the Esquimalt Arts Festival at Gorge Point Park.
Those two events were so popular with residents that more events were added including Sculpture Splash, Township Classics and artists in residence.
The arts council operates on a $40,000 annual budget. With the township’s $30,000 commitment, the arts council also fundraises another $9,000.
“The [arts council] is very appreciative of the continuing support of Esquimalt residents as demonstrated through council’s decision to provide early approval of our grant request,” said RJ Senko, arts council board member.