| Sarasota,
FL: Through team work, strong management and community support,
the City of Sarasota’s subsidy to the Van Wezel Performing
Arts Hall dropped by 65% during the past fiscal year, which
ended recently. The subsidy declined significantly, from $1
million during fiscal year 2007-08 to $350,000 in fiscal year
2008-09, ending September 30, 2009. “This is an impressive
reduction,” said City Manager Robert Bartolotta. “During
these challenging economic times, Mary Bensel and her staff
at the Van Wezel have remained focused on reducing the City’s
subsidy and they’re doing a tremendous job. Cutting
the subsidy by $650,000 in a single year is phenomenal,”
said Bartolotta.
City Manager Bartolotta and the City Commission
will recognize the Van Wezel staff and its achievement during
the next regular City Commission meeting Mon., December 7,
2009 at 2:30pm in the Commission Chambers at City Hall.
Five reasons are cited for the subsidy reduction:
(1) Strong fiscal management. The number of full time employees
at the Van Wezel has been cut by more than 50% over the past
three years. (2) Team work. Due to staff reductions, many
employees now juggle many more responsibilities and work many
more hours. “It’s been a team effort,” said
Mary Bensel, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Executive Director.
“We’ve relied more on volunteers and part-time
employees. And, they’re taking on more responsibility
and working many, many hours. The staff has been fabulous.
Also, I cannot thank the community enough for its continued
support,” said Bensel. (3) Enhanced programming. There
is an emphasis on selective and diverse programming from paid
performances to Friday Fest. (4) Enhanced marketing. Many
more marketing avenues are being utilized including selective
placement of advertisements; promoting theme dinners and giveaways;
the addition of a new electronic message board outside the
Van Wezel along U.S. 41 which displays information about upcoming
shows. (5) Expanded support from the Van Wezel Foundation.
The Foundation committed $1 million to education programming
over four years. Last year and this year, it committed an
additional $150,000 per year for education, bussing and Mainstage
sponsorships. The relationship between the Foundation and
the City has blossomed into a true partnership.
To learn more about the Van Wezel, including
upcoming performances, visit www.vanwezel.org.
|
