Arts funding for New Britain in State Budget.

New Britain's arts community is a real gem that, most people agree, can be a core for the revitalization of our city - especially but not limited to our downtown.  That is why I fought to make sure that New Britain is included in the state allocation of arts funding.  Two years ago, my efforts paid off when New Britain, for the first time, received an annual appropriation to support local arts organizations.

With the budget crisis this year, there was a lot of concern that this funding would be eliminated completely.  That is why I am so pleased that the New Britain legislative delegation was able to keep this important funding in the state budget.  This truly means that regular support for New Britain's arts community is a now a state priority.  As the New Britain Herald reported:

The recently approved state budget allocates just over $80,000 out of the general fund for the Greater New Britain Arts Alliance, which will redistribute the money to area art organizations.

“Support for arts and culture is essential to move New Britain in a more positive direction,” said state representative Tim O’Brien, D-24th District, who pushed to include the grant money in the budget. “We need to continue to lay the foundation now. I envision New Britain as a vibrant cultural center, with performance spaces, studios, and all of the creativity, innovation, and economic activity that a thriving arts community can bring.”

State Rep. John Geragosian, D-25th District, the Chairman of the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee commended O’Brien.

“Rep. O’Brien has been one of the strongest advocates in the legislature for community arts. These grants [totalling $81,225] bring a worthwhile return on investment for the city and its residents,” Geragosian said.

I would also extend my thanks to Rep. Geragosian for his work, as Appropriations Chair, to preserve this funding.