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Finding new ways to fund the arts without raising taxes and ensuring affordable live-work spaces for artists were a couple of the topics brought to the table. The forum also addressed the issue of how the hotel occupancy tax is distributed among arts organizations.
The Miller Outdoor Theatre Advisory Board’s Cissy Segall Davis says it’s critical for the candidates to realize that an investment in arts and culture is an investment in the city.
“We’re not just about (as I say in my end of the business) sequins and feathers. The arts are a business and economic driver in this city, and in this state and in the country,” Davis said.
In the end, all of the candidates agreed that supporting Houston’s arts community is important, but differed on how exactly to do that.
The next forum focuses on city budget and economic development. It will take place Thursday, June 4 at 6 p.m. at the University of Houston Student Center South, at 126 University Drive.