COLUMBUS – Columbus city council will hear from the public on the topic of a proposed “arts and culture admissions fee” to fund the arts and support Nationwide Arena.
Arts and Culture Admissions Fee Public Hearing
The Greater Columbus Arts Council has proposed a 7 percent tax on admissions and tickets to cultural and pro sports events in Columbus to provide financial support for arts groups and events in the city, but also to help shore up the finances of troubled Nationwide Arena, home of the Columbus Blue Jackets NHL franchise.
Residents can find out more and fill out a survey on the proposal.
Council President Shannon Hardin, chair of the Rules and Reference Committee is hosting the hearing. Interested speakers are invited to offer testimony but comments are limited to three minutes and anyone who wishes to speak must register before 5:00 p.m. at City Hall.
The proposal calls for 70 percent of the proceeds from the fee would benefit cultural activities, grants for artists and capital improvements for arts facilities while the remaining 30 percent will be distributed to Nationwide Arena. It is that part of the proposal which has been the cause of the most vocal opposition.