Surveys ask candidates where they stand on arts, educations

The Richmond Teachers' Association (RTA) conducted a survey, asking the 10 trustee candidates to answer eight questions regarding funding, priorities and the role of the board of education.

The responses were not particularly surprising, but there are subtle differences that are important to know about when it comes to voting, said Jerry Fast, RTA's vice president.

"They all said they would work to secure adequate funding for education, for example, but the strategies they would use to do that differed."

While the survey was conducted on behalf of teachers, it provides important information for anyone involved in the system, be it parents or support staff, he added.

"The focus is on the working/learning conditions because the two are so closely linked."

Fast noted that the RTA, unlike some other teacher associations, does not endorse specific candidates.

"We just put the information out there."

To view the complete survey, which includes eight questions to each of the candidates, check out t this website.

Fast also encourages voters to attend a trustees all-candidate meeting tonight at Richmond Secondary. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting is hosted by the RTA, the Richmond District Parent Association, Richmond Association of School Administrators and CUPE.

The Richmond Arts Coalition (RAC), which represents artists, arts and cultural organizations and arts patrons in Richmond, also surveyed all 29 candidates for the 2011 municipal general and school elections to gain a profile on current issues that matter to the arts and culture community.

The common thread with most respondents in regards to the arts is the need for community partnerships and collaboration, and finding innovative ways to advance the arts and culture for the overall benefit of the City of Richmond.

Both mayoral candidates responded, each recognizing a mutual benefit to partnering with community arts organizations and the need for sustained growth, funding and facilities in the arts and culture sector.

Responses were received from 12 of 17 candidates for council. The partnership theme continued, suggesting a proactive engagement and collaboration with stakeholder groups, including exploring partnerships with the private sector, might be a solution to sustainability and growth.

Funding is a key issue, with discussions about funding levels for the new arts and culture grant program, as well as the need for new facilities including live-work spaces for artists.

Several respondents suggested partnerships with developers in addition to federal and provincial support should be looked at with regards to the need for arts and culture facilities.

School Trustee candidates also addressed the value and importance of community partnerships and collaboration to deliver arts education to students. Among the seven out of a possible 10 respondents, the challenge to restore artistic and creative time to schools seemed difficult to answer.

Some candidates suggested leveraging opportunities with city partners and facilities to further enhance artistic education, including Continuing Education. It was suggested that long-term strategic plans should include consultations with community arts groups.

The following is the candidates' responses in their entirety:

CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICE OF SCHOOL TRUSTEE

Questions asked:

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literacy Arts ) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

Rod Belleza

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

I support opportunities for artistic learning using a two-pronged approach. The first component is curriculum design. We should adapt and enhance our educational curriculum involving artistic learning to the diverse needs of our students. My aim is to have all instructional programs develop each student's ability to enjoy the arts as a part of the life-long learning process. As a current Richmond School Trustee, I voted for District implementation of an Elementary Band/Music program that serves all grade 6 and 7 students.

The second component is creating community partnerships. I think our children would benefit most from artistic learning if they receive hands-on interaction. Creating partnerships with existing societies and organizations in our community would create artistic learning opportunities for our kids by involving them with local music programs, dance studios, theatre productions, gourmet kitchens, etc. We should expose our kids to arts in the "real world" as early as possible.

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

I fully support incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools. I believe in the mission of the Richmond School District to provide opportunities for all students to develop skills and knowledge that enable them to enjoy a productive life. Our school district should create a foundation for life-long learning for our students. Going forward, we should maximize the use of current resources around the city such as the Gateway Theatre, cultural centres, art galleries and the library.

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literacy Arts ) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

I wholeheartedly believe that our school system should partner with local art organizations to further enhance our school curriculum. Arts and cultural programs are very important in a diverse city like Richmond. They improve the quality of life for people in Richmond and promote social and cultural opportunities for artists, cultural groups and the City of Richmond.

By having a partnership with local arts organizations we can work together on a long term strategic plan along with the City to:

Include arts in the official community plan

Enhance student opportunity to develop their individual potential

Support and recognize local artists and their organizations

Support funding of The Gateway Theatre, art galleries and cultural centres.

Richmond is a beautiful city with such a diverse makeup and history. We should expose our kids to the many splendours our city has to offer.

William Kang Chen

Kenny Chiu

Norm Goldstein

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

The arts are a universal way to elicit creativity from people. This process transfers to other human endeavours where creativity is critical to progress and vitality, such as scientific research. I support and encourage society to maintain a healthy and growing arts community, with opportunities for all to participate.

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

Creativity must be encouraged in our school system, whether it be through the arts or other subjects.

We need a balance between memorization, direct learning and creativity. I fully support the arts being offered as classes, with special programs also available, as demand warrants.

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literary Arts) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

Yes! Such programs might be offered at only a small number of schools, depending on demand.

This approach to education is also compatible with the BC government's "Choice" legislation of 2003, which mandates that students may apply to any school, and are not limited to their catchment school.

Jonathan Ho

Donna Sargent

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

I would support opportunities for artistic learning by first valuing how important it is. I would continue to advocate for funding for arts programs in our schools by involving our community in the conversation, talking to our MLA's, Minister of Education etc. I also support strongly our Continuing Education Department and their initiatives for adults and children learning outside of school time. We are all lifelong learners and should understand the value of continuing our education especially in arts and culture.

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

We currently have lots of artistic and creative time happening now in our schools. I would continue to encourage that work and look for other opportunities to engage the community with us.

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literary Arts) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

Yes I am in favour of continuing to create partnerships with local Arts organization. We work closely now with such organizations and I would continue to look for other ways to do that. A strong community takes everyone working together. The school district cannot work alone or in isolation.

Michael Starchuk

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

Everyone learn different ways and I would encourage teachers, schools and the district to be imaginative in finding the best way to reach the learner. If artistic learning bests suits a child's learning style then it should be used to help them react their potential.

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

Using your imagination and being creative are two big parts of problem solving so giving children time in school to do so will help them in life later on. believe there is already time for artistic and creative time in schools, but the more variety we provide our children in the better they will be for it.

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literary Arts) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

I am in favour of creating partnerships with many local organizations including Arts organizations. We have lost a sense of community and to get that back you need to get to know your neighbors. I would like to see children have many different influences and experiences in their lives.

Debbie Tablotney

1. Sir Ken Robinson is quoted as saying, "Creativity is as important as literacy", I believe this to be true. In our rapidly changing world it will be increasingly important for our young people to be creative and innovative thinkers. Educating students in the arts fosters this method of thinking and problem solving. As a strong advocate for the arts I have and I will continue to support the comprehensive visual and performing arts programs that we currently offer in our schools. It is important that boards facing fiscal restraint do not look to cut these valuable programs to find funds to balance budgets.

I feel that it is important to provide our teachers with professional development opportunities to help them stay abreast of new methods of teaching and learning through the arts. Partnering with our local colleges, universities as well as arts organizations and businesses to provide career prep opportunities is also desirable. To that end, highlighting our arts programs through the exposure that our Fine Arts Fair draws is very important in showcasing what our school district has to offer to students.

2. Last January I had the privilege of attending an Elizabethan Banquet put together through the cooperation of several of Richmond High's grade 9 subject departments. The students demonstrated what cross curricular learning can look like by demonstrating their knowledge of Elizabethan times, through performing science experiments, theatrical, music and dancing performances, artistic contests, insult hurling, as well as culinary experiences.

This was a prime example of building collaborative time into the school day by making a small adjustment to the student's schedules so that departments can meet to discuss how to deliver curriculum in a meaningful and engaging manner to our students. Incorporating artistic and creative time back into the school is extremely important and is complemented by teachers incorporating their time and effort into the students learning experience.

3. Yes, I am highly in favor of creating these types of valuable partnerships to enhance our programs. An example of this is our School district's long standing partnership with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra in which members of the orchestra come to our schools and give sectional instruction along with a series of classes instructed by Bramwell Tovey, Director of the Symphony. They also have the opportunity to sit in on a practice session with the Orchestra.

We also partner with the Opera where members help students to write and perform an opera based on their learning in a certain subject area, for example salmon spawning.

It is important to continually seek new partnerships and opportunities such as these to

enhance our educational programs.

Grace Tsang

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

I am a long time supporter for artistic learning in Richmond. My parental and community involvement include: founding member of the Richmond Arts Coalition, member and past board member of the Richmond Youth Concert Band and Hugh Boyd Secondary school music department fundraiser. As a parent with two children who have benefited from the fine arts program, I have always been a strong advocate of artistic learning opportunities. I believe that as students engage in the fine arts, this would foster their development in critical-thinking skills and social responsibility. I will continue to:

- ensure that the board encourages and funds initiatives to support fine arts program, e.g. the board approved its 2011-2012 budget to purchase $25,000 of new instruments

- advocate for sustainable resources to support the fine arts program by communicating with the City of Richmond, the Ministry of Education, as well as the Federal Government

- working together with non-profit organizations, community partners and post secondary institutions in utilizing resources to offer training and mentorship to staff and students

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

Given the 21st Century personalized learning initiative from the Ministry of Education to Boards of Education, we need to provide flexibility/program choice and teaching resources to support such initiative in order to maximize student achievement. As a result, the Board needs to:

- continue to provide opportunities to highlight the fine arts to build student interest and appreciation for the arts, e.g. SD38 annual Fine Arts Fair, Education Week and Music in Our Schools

- promote career opportunities associated with the arts industry

- support ongoing teacher professional development in using the art as a vehicle to improve student achievement in all subjects

- continue to encourage cross curricular use of the fine arts

- continue to support the elementary band program

- encourage fine arts mentoring initiatives that build capacity and skills in students and staff

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literary Arts) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

Yes, I am in favour. As a member of the Richmond Sunset Rotary Club which sponsors the Annual Winter Wonderland Concerts at the City Hall, I am one of the co-ordinators who works with local non-profit community performing groups/music schools and school bands to put the concert program together.

Some of the SD38 partnerships with local Arts organizations are:

- Chef Ian Lai on the "Terra Nova Project" working with elementary students in the Terra Nova area, learning activities ranging from planting to harvesting (including using the ingredients to cook and bake)

- Richmond Art Gallery: RAG School Art Program and the 'Arts for Life' conference for secondary students interested in a career in the visual arts

In addition, there may be opportunities to partner with SD38 Continuing Education to offer fine arts courses through its Youth and Children Program after school or on the weekend.

Eric Yung

1. Given that our economy is developed and changed by creative individuals, how would you support opportunities for artistic learning?

I believe that all learning can be relevant and useful to our children. The provincial government has started discussions on a greater degree of freedom in developing individualized learning plans for our children. I would support this to allow a greater degree of freedom for those so inclined to spend more time in artistic endeavours to encourage their potential. Creativity can lead to positive changes in our society, not just our economy. As the late Steve Jobs pointed out, the beautiful calligraphy that exists in our computers today is due to him taking a calligraphy course at college - which has certainly changed both our society and our economy for the better.

2. What is your position on incorporating artistic and creative time back into the schools?

I support the incorporation of artistic and creative components to learning. I believe that everyone should have an artistic endeavour to allow for self-expression and creativity.

Everyone should have the ability to give expression to their soul's creativity, be it via a musical instrument, through dance and movement, painting or drawing, or any other artistic medium. Not everything in life is quantifiable and it is time spent on the esoteric that defines us best as human beings. Given that, it is obvious that we should teach our children methods of artistic expression and give them time to develop their own creativity.

3. Are you in favour of creating partnerships with local Arts organizations (i.e. - Music, Drama, Dance, Visual, Culinary & Literary Arts) that would develop programs to augment school curriculum?

I stated publicly, that I believe the Richmond School district should partner with the Richmond Arts Coalition to create a broader collaboration between the arts and our schools. I would definitely favour creating partnerships with many local arts organizations to support programs to augment the school curriculum. In many cases, we can build on existing strengths, for example the Richmond Youth Concert Band, or the culinary teaching programs at Richmond Secondary. In others, we should look at developing new links to further enrich our children's education.

CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICE OF MAYOR

MALCOLM BRODIE

1a. Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition?

Yes

1b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

It is mutually beneficial to have an organization to take community leadership in the arts - the group can inform the City through its advocacy on how to advance the arts and the ambitions of those interested in the arts which then improves the community.

2. In 2008, the Richmond Arts Coalition partnered with a number of other high-profile Richmond organizations to conduct an arts-related economic scan, which determined that the Arts generate $135 million in economic output in Richmond alone. What will you do to support stability and ensure growth in the arts sector?

City Council has supported the Arts sector in many ways, such as through the significant annual funding for the Gateway Theatre, as well as the Library & Cultural Centre. Richmond now sponsors cultural performances, such as the Minoru Chapel Opera Series, the Arts Awards, a spring lecture series, a staff Arts Coordinator as part of a department, as well as many events throughout the year. The City recently completed the Arts Strategy. The rooftop garden at the Library & Cultural Centre opens a whole new facet for the arts. I have personally supported many events through my attendance as Mayor and encouraged the Arts community generally.

3. For City of Richmond initiatives and partnerships involving the Arts, how do you feel about Richmond Artists being given priority?

Local artists should have every chance to participate in Richmond initiatives. This can't be exclusive but should be encouraged whenever possible, e.g. the public art at the Steveston Fire Hall and the sculptures in front of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery.

4. The Arts community has identified a lack of sufficient Performing Arts facilities in Richmond. How will you address this critical issue?

The City should work with the Coalition on identification of needs and find ways to address them. Use of existing facilities should also be maximized.

5. The City of Richmond has recognized the economic value of the Arts and Culture community by creating a separate grant program and funding stream which will be implemented this fall. The Arts community is celebrating this new initiative, however the initial per capita funding level is far below other municipalities. Are you in favour of an aggressive approach to increasing this funding on an annual basis to bring it to within similar levels of other jurisdictions within the next five years? Please explain.

The Grant Process should be regularly reviewed to determine adequacy as well as effectiveness, particularly when a new direction is being taken such as the separate program. We should decide in Richmond the appropriate levels to provide the arts community by way of grants. Overall we want to encourage and support those involved in the arts in Richmond.

RICHARD LEE

1. Yes I am familiar with your goals. The partnership is a must for the City because as the saying goes, "A City is measured by how well it treats its artists (and its arts organizations).";

2. As Mayor, I will support the arts sector by offering to be one of the faces representing the arts in our City to the world, this would include theatre, dance, music, literature and visual arts. I will also work hard with new ideas, new enthusiasm and new energy introducing potential new patrons of the arts to the arts sector;

3. Good question, what comes to mind in my case is this, as the City's Mayor, I will give the arts equal prominence as I will give to the sports, that is the arts will not be treated as a poor cousin as in the case of many cities;

4. Performing Arts facilities, as the new Mayor, I will set the standard at that of the City of Burnaby, and I will work towards achieving this goal with the help and support of our artists and arts organizations;

5. As to "the per capita funding level being far below other cities", as the new Mayor, I will find out why this Mayor & Council allowed it to be so. Like I said, 'A City is judged by how well or how poorly it treats its artists.", and by bringing new ideas, new energy and new enthusiasm to the Mayor's Office, I will redress the iniquity in a timely fashion.

CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR

Questions asked:

1a. Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition?

b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

3. For City of Richmond initiatives and partnerships involving the Arts, how do you feel about Richmond Artists being given priority?

4. The Arts community has identified a lack of sufficient Performing Arts facilities in Richmond. How will you address this critical issue?

Chak Kwong Au

1a. Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition?

Richmond has the same percentage of artists in our midst as does Montreal. The economy of modern cities is largely dependent on the "creative class" living and working in the city. These creative workers and professionals are attracted to cities like Dublin and Toronto, which have vibrant artistic communities. This means that Richmond will benefit from supporting the arts in all its forms: music, drama, dance, visual arts, and multi-media.

As a Richmond school trustee for the past 12 years, I have worked to strengthen the fine arts programs for our students and develop partnership between the school district and many community organizations. I worked to establish the SD 38 Fine Arts Committee, then vigourously supported initiatives such as the highly successful Fine Arts Career Day.

b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

We need both! Neither group, working alone, can successfully support and encourage the arts. A strong collaboration is needed. The expertise and advice provided by the Coalition are crucial. The City must provide adequate funding and resources.

The City has to recognize the economic contribution made by the arts sector. The public should also be educated about this fact and the value of the arts. I see the key problem is the lack of performance and exhibition space.

There is no public space to showcase local artists' work in Richmond. Artists need working studios. Richmond needs professional quality facilities for community film screenings, amateur theatre and music performances. Our large dance culture needs to "show off" in Richmond. Our great orchestra and chorus need to perform together in a facility large enough to accommodate them.

3. For City of Richmond initiatives and partnerships involving the Arts, how do you feel about Richmond Artists being given priority?

I feel strongly that local artists should be supported and given priority in Richmond initiatives. With our cultural diversity, (over 60% of Richmond residents were born outside of Canada), Richmond offers a unique opportunity for a new generation of artists and visionaries. We need them. We need their voices and perspectives. We need their challenges to dialogue and possibilities. Why not an annually appointed Richmond poet laureate, musician, or multi-media artist to inspire our citizenry? To create artistic collaborations amongst Richmond's rich cultural diversity?

4. The Arts community has identified a lack of sufficient Performing Arts facilities in Richmond. How will you address this critical issue?

For me, and many Richmond citizens, it is embarrassing and a little shameful to have our largest and best-equipped performance centre housed in a gambling establishment.

One of my regrets as a Richmond school trustee was our failure to have incorporated a "Michael Fox"-type theatre into MacNeill, or Richmond Secondary schools. This has been a critical issue for years as most of the existing facilities were built before the rapid growth of Richmond's population. The City should look for opportunities for partnership with the arts sector, business, school district, universities and other levels of government.

Although the City has adopted the Richmond Arts Strategy in 2004, the establishment of dedicated funds for the arts is long-overdue. The sobering reality is that our arts funding has been neglected by Richmond city council for two decades. I am in favour of increasing our per capita funding to similar levels of other jurisdictions. I will do more study and consult the arts sector for a viable timeline to achieve this goal.

Linda Barnes

1.a. Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition?

As a founding member of the Arts Coalition and council liaison to the original Arts Strategy I am very familiar with the identified facility and infrastructure needs as identified.

b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

The Coalition is much better positioned than the city to focus on advocacy and fundraising initiatives. They also have the expertise often the city requires when negotiating space or grant applications. Having support from Arts Coalition means when city spends money or holds an awards it has the support of the community as well as the expertise to draw on.

I have in the past ensured that the Arts are a priority for our Economic Task Force, worked with the Chamber to encompass Arts in Business as well as supporting local endeavors. Public Art is also very important, bringing in developers and private organizations or individuals to sponsor and be a part of the Arts Scene. I also sit on the Regional Arts and Culture committee (Metro) and helped successfully launch www.maxquide.org which is a free tool for arts organizations @ individuals to promote their events, venues @ groups.

3. For City of Richmond initiatives and partnerships involving the Arts, how do you feel about Richmond Artists being given priority?

I feel that for certain events or initiatives local artists should be given priority but want to ensure that Richmond encompasses the full scope of the arts communities which truly knows no boundaries. As artists I'm sure they also want to be stretched and challenged and exposed to a wide range of abilities and opportunities. So I would not support local artists having total priority.

4. The Arts community has identified a lack of sufficient Performing Arts facilities in Richmond. How will you address this critical issue?

See # 1 As well I will continue to work with local, provincial and federal gov't as well as private groups to investigate all opportunities to expand facilities

I was on task force that recommended a separate grant program and attempted to increase the funding to $100,000. Unfortunately the extra increase did not get Council support although some council members indicated they would consider an increase as uptake for grants increased.

Cynthia A. Chen

1.a Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition? YES

b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

PARTICIPATE AS ADVISORY TO COUNCIL AND ACT AS A SUPPORTING PARTNER FOR CITY INITIATIVES INVOLVING THE ARTS

IF ELECTED, I WILL ENCOURAGE THE CITY TO CONTINUE TO EXAMINE AND DEVELOP NEW INITIATIVES AND PARTNERSHIPS TO SUPPORT STABILITY AND ENSURE GROWTH IN THE ARTS SECTOR

3. For City of Richmond initiatives and partnerships involving the Arts, how do you feel about Richmond Artists being given priority?

LOCAL ARTISTS SHOULD BE GIVEN PRIORITY

4. The Arts community has identified a lack of sufficient Performing Arts facilities in Richmond. How will you address this critical issue?

I AM ON PUBLIC RECORD AS AN ADVOCATE FOR THE BUILDING OF A NEW STAND-ALONE ARTS AND CULTURE CENTRE THAT WOULD INCLUDE A FILM THEATRE, MUSICAL PERFORMANCE STAGE, REHEARSAL, WORKSHOP, AND STUDIO SPACE

YES, I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE ANNUAL GRANT PROGRAM IMPROVED EVERY YEAR TO BRING IT TO WITHIN SIMILAR LEVELS OF OTHER JURISDICTIONS WITHIN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS.

Derek Dang

Carol Day

1 Yes l am just starting to learn about the goals of the Arts Coalition and have supported the ART TRUCK in the past by donating signage I believe the arts are critical to operate in the community because they provide an alternative to sports and academics for people who are not as interested in those areas and need to express themselves in other ways.

b The City of Richmond can provide resources and space to the Richmond Arts Coalition and in return the Coalition can provide an opportunity for classes, clubs and art shows, all of which will benefit the people of Richmond.

2 Growth in the Arts is good for the city and l feel that through expanding the partnership groups you can not only help the arts grow but provide new opportunities for exposure to new venue's . I would like to see international art exchanges that could involve students in other parts of the world working with students here to share new idea's and exchange art for display or trade.Stability in the arts is provided with basic funding by the city but to really expand services and opportunities we need to work with local businesses and the public. We have so many incredible partners in Richmond and city's job to to help bring those groups together as opportunities arise and help the arts Coalition forge new friendships.

3 I am a little biased, l feel before we support foreign artists we should give our home grown artists first opportunity. I will never agree that the LENIN head was a good idea , I'm sorry but really ? Could our local artists not have provided and more attractive piece of art than that ? I think a driftwood sculpture from the beach would have been an improvement.

4 The Gateway theater is 25 years old and while our population have grown incredibly our little Gateway theater has not. Developers bring in new people and with that they should be required to also bring in new dollars to support infrastructure which includes space for performing arts. I believe our development fee's could be increased to include infrastructure improvements and some of that extra funding should be directed to long term goals of expanding the performing arts facility's.

5 Funding is critical to organizations such as the Richmond Arts Coalition, if the funds are available then the funding should be increased a little each year to eventually reach the levels of funding with other jurisdictions. The problem arises when there is an economic downturn which is being predicted. If the economy does poorly then all area's of the city must tighten their belt and implement cost saving measures. In the school district we have been forced to deal with severe reductions in Ministry funding and while that was an incredibly difficult time for the district it forced us to look at how we do business and makes changes . Some of the changes ended up being really positive new approaches for the district and in the end those new procedures will continue to be implemented.

So l would suggest now is the time to look at all funding options for the Arts Coalition and use those extra sources of income to pay it forward that way if there is no increase or worst , less funding from the city then the Coalition can still flourish.

Ken Johnston

1. Yes I am familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition. As a Arts and Cultural advocacy group you represent the interests of your members to all levels of government.

1.b partnership between the City and RAC helps aid in strategic planning for Arts/ Cultural needs in the future. The City can utilize the knowledge and experience of the coalition in supporting the artistic community.

2. I would ensure that the City remain committed to supporting the Arts as one of our strategic goals. The goal of building capacity within and support for arts and culture organizations. I would like to promote a greater partnership with the private sector in supporting the Arts.

3. I am completely supportive of Richmond Artists being given priority on City of Richmond initiatives. During the debate on whether to purchase any of the Biennale works from our Public Art funds, I stated publically that we should support Richmond and local artists before funding any offshore artists.

4. I understand that the RAC has identified the need for a new Cultural. Visual and Performing Arts Facility. The job of a Councillor is to plan for Community Facilities based on needs and priorities of our residents. I am willing to enter the discussion and work with the RAC in putting the planning for a new facility on the Capital Expenditure agenda.

5. I supported the revision of the City Grant Program to create a separate funding stream for Arts and Culture. I recognize per capita funding for the category is below other municipalities but this is the first year of implementation in Richmond and the program will be reviewed in 2012 prior to the 2013 allocations. I would support increasing the funding on an incremental basis over the next years.

Alexa Loo

1. a. the Richmond Arts Council represents the voice of the arts community here in Richmond, your long term 5 - 10 year goal is a new facility with room for the different arts including a new 750 seat theatre.

b. Benefits that I see are:

Opportunities to have programs for kids, families and new-comers to Richmond to become part of the Arts community in Richmond and become integrated into the community as a whole. An integrated and engaged community is a healthy community.

The City of Richmond can use the Arts Coalition to deliver community programs that teach skills in the arts, create art for the City, and help develop our distinct culture that we have here in Richmond. It is one thing to preserve our heritage, but it is another to develop our identity as a community in the arts - which I support.

2 To ensure the growth of the arts in Richmond, I would like to explore opportunities to utilize space in schools - particularly outside school hours to have programs for adults as well as after school arts programs.

I would also like to explore some corporate sponsorships and provincial funding in order to realize the new arts facility.

3. For Richmond City initiatives and partnerships, I think under the right circumstances, we should give priority to Richmond Artists. In some cases depending upon the art we are looking to use, it may make sense to bring in outside artists who are utilizing new methods etc. that can inspire and push the boundaries of our local artists.

4. The lack of performing arts facilities should be a priority for us here in Richmond.

Theatres that are large enough to accommodate local events and provide places for our developing artists is important for a community. We have an opportunity to make Richmond great - rather than just being a suburb of Vancouver. With true vision, we could have a new facility and a real presence in the art community of Greater Vancouver.

5. I would like to see what the numbers are with reference to the funding level in comparison with other municipalities before i comment. I would also like to know what the grants and funding streams are expected to support relative to what happens in other municipalities.

Bill McNulty

1a Yes

1b Any partnerships that the Richmond Arts coalition makes can only benefit the Arts. I

believe the coalition should have many partners as it sees fit. The benefits are many ranging from advocacy to opportunities. Partnerships bring groups together and puts them on the same page with the same goals and objectives. The commitment and passion is shared. Unity is created for supporting the arts and gives a greater visibility when promoting the arts.

2 Continue to support the arts strategy of the city. Lobby for more funding from the Province for the arts. Support the creation of arts districts in the city core as development takes place. Support the new grants program and re-examine the per capita once a business plan is developed. Require developers to fund artistic amenities on their sites and provide funds for the arts. Look for a site for an artists studio like building 15 at Britannia. Continue to look for ways to fund a performing arts center.

3 No problem with it as we have some catching up to do!

4 A facility needs assessment needs to be done like that of the Richmond Sports Council with every group both professional and amateur providing valuable input. Then develop a business plan and timeline to accomplish the goals. And then integrate the plan into the cities capital plan.

5 I support an aggressive approach. The specific need has to be detailed as in #4. The per capita is just a start, how do we know it is enough? Why are we comparing to similar levels as most groups are underfunded by the Province and can't accomplish their goals. What is the suitable amount? Will it ever be enough? A business plan needs to come from the stakeholders to get a realistic view of what is really needed. We must shoot high.

Linda McPhail

1.a Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition?

Yes, I am a member of RAC.

b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

As I mentioned in an earlier survey, I believe that the arts, culture and arts education are important elements in a vital city. Together, we strive for continued development of a strong, cultural community.

Benefits include:

- Opportunity to collaborate and capitalize on the expertise and knowledge that each organization brings to the table .

-opportunities to promote to a broader range of people/areas through different networks - local, regional, provincial, national and international contacts

- opportunities to co-ordinate delivery of activities/services so that they are more cost effective with less duplication and have the potential to reach a broader range of the community

-opportunities for advocacy at different levels of government and other tables for funding, promotion, grants etc.

-opportunities to celebrate and encourage local artists

I agree that the arts sector is an important and valued contributor to our city's economic well being. Personally, I support a variety of arts initiatives. As a school trustee on the Richmond Board of Education, I have been a strong advocate for sustaining the arts in the public education especially around the area of band programs. I believe that there needs to be well defined polices and a strategic plan for the arts that are adaptable and flexible. These need to be reviewed to ensure we are meeting the goals set out, or not, and to see where we need to go next. The last few years have focused on the Olympics ( Richmond's 2010 Arts & Cultural Plan 2008-2010, Arts Update 2010) THE PRCS Master Plan 2005-2015 articulates some outcomes that are important to Arts, Culture and Heritage. 2008 saw the release of the Econo9mic scan and the Arts and Culture Scan. 4 years have passed since the surveys were done and in that time Richmond has continued to experienced unprecedented growth. I think it is time to have a review of these outcomes to see where we are. As an individual councillor I will advocate for allocation of resources within a revised strategic plan that has well defined outcomes.

3. For City of Richmond initiatives and partnerships involving the Arts, how do you feel about Richmond Artists being given priority?

I feel very strongly that, whenever possible, we should be showcasing and promoting local Richmond artists - especially for City of Richmond initiatives.

4. The Arts community has identified a lack of sufficient Performing Arts facilities in Richmond. How will you address this critical issue?

This is not a new issue - it has been under discussion for several years. We must work proactively together with all stakeholder groups to seek a viable solution. Corporate and individual sectors need to be encouraged to come to the table.

I believe that the separate grant program needs to be supported with dedicated funds. Before committing to increased funding on an annual basis, I would need to see more information. I am in favour of a review of the per capita funding levels and a report on what the estimated costs are to bring Richmond within similar levels of other jurisdictions.

Peter Mitchell

1.a Are you familiar with the goals of the Richmond Arts Coalition?

Yes, to advocate for Arts and Culture with Richmond and higher government levels, to coordinate local Arts and Culture groups locally and with other Arts and Culture groups, and ensure they are represented at major Richmond events.

b. What benefits do you see in a partnership with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Arts Coalition?

Richmond could provide wider awareness and promotion of local Arts and Culture in RIchmond, promotion of established artists and encouragement of young or new artists, facilities for the Arts and Culture so the public can see and enjoy local Arts and Culture and compare it to examples from other places in the world. Richmond can also pass fundraising as Arts sponsorships.

Richmond can benefit from the wages that local production can deliver, the heightened tourism opportunities, and to a degree enhanced property values.

The City now has a grants program to help encourage Arts and Culture events. I would be supportive of it just as I am of similar sports and recreation funding.

Sports also has KidSports to help disadvantaged youth play sports. I would support Arts and Culture considering how a similar program could be operated in the Arts community.

Surveys ask candidates where they stand on arts, educations

This has been shared 0 times

More Local News

Featured Flyer