We are very disappointed in the County Commissioners' decision to eliminate arts funding in 2011. The small amount that they have allotted to the arts in the last few years has been dismal, and now to be eliminating it, is unfair -- ESPECIALLY in light of the fact that they have actually increased funding to sports. The small amount of money that small arts organizations receive from the arts is actually a vital amount to them. By cutting their funding, the County Commissioners will be crippling the arts industry. PLEASE, help prevent this from happening by signing this petition and encouraging at least $300,000 for the arts organizations. 

1. In 2008, the cultural industry in Hillsborough had an economic impact of $297 million and generated $11 million to local government.

2. Over 4.2 million people attended arts and cultural events.

3. Non-profit arts supported over 8,000 jobs, makes it 3rd largest employer in Hillsborough County. Encourage the County Commissioners to listen to the community, and do the right thing.

Image: Michelle Meiklejohn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net​

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