Hi Vidwest members,
You may have read on Facebook that City Staff recently declined to participate in a town hall forum on Community Media. This likely closes the door on a dedicated public talk back session between Staff, Council Members, and residents where we could develop solutions for a new service contract for Community Media.
However, the conversation is not over. There are still public events about the budget where you can show up and be heard.
Here's a couple of upcoming events. I recommend RSVP'ing so they have enough space.
1) The Mayor's Let's Talk Local on Monday 5:30-7 p.m. July 27. The discussion will be held at the Missouri United Methodist Church, 204 S. 9th Street. The focus topic will be the proposed annual operating budget for FY2027. Rsvp if possible: https://forms.gle/JCe6NUxAz4ZwUKbF6
2) Thursday, July 30, 11:30a to 1:30pm OR 6pm to 8pm our City Manager and our Finance Director will host a Budget Town Hall and discuss "How we got here". This will include a broad overview of factors that have shaped our financial reality over the past several years and decisions facing leadership as they construct the operating budget for fiscal year 2027. These will be held at City Hall, in conference rooms 1A/1B. Please rsvp for the time that works best for you, lunch time or evening: https://forms.gle/vCizdknANYafxNNe6
Next, here's a list of the most common City talking points. I've also included suggested replies:
CITY: Funding a community media center isn't a City Service?
---> With all due respect what do you call a subsidized public service with government funding and government property established over the past 20 years and servicing all Columbia residents?
CITY: There is no money left in the budget for community media.
---> Can you honestly say that everything in the current budget is MORE IMPORTANT than a citizen-led community space for mutual aid that serves low-income and racially diverse neighborhoods? Also, we're talking about .0002% of the budget for a volunteer-driven space that creates equity, supports local business, and offers a safe environment for youth after hours and on weekends.
CITY: We cannot discuss an ongoing service contract.
---> If you are unwilling to discuss plans for funding community media in public, then how is the public supposed to participate in crafting the City's budget on this topic?
Community Media will only survive if the community rallies and stands up to the City. Please consider when and where you can make your voice heard.
We're available at info@vidwest.org if you have questions or would like guidance on your communications with the City.
Best,
Vidwest Staff