"Berkeley voters may be asked to consider a ballot measure next year that would increase property taxes to generate money for performing arts organizations, which have struggled to bounce back from the pandemic and fear they can no longer rely on federal funding. A new coalition of arts groups that includes Berkeley Repertory Theater, Berkeley Symphony Orchestra and the Freight & Salvage announced last week that it will start collecting signatures for a parcel tax of 7 cents per square foot."
"We believe that Berkeley without the arts isn't Berkeley, said Liz Lisle, managing director of Shotgun Players. It's a basic value of the city. Attendance and subscriptions are only now starting to match pre-pandemic figures at Shotgun Players, which only this year returned to comparable revenue, Lisle said. Others haven't been so lucky. Aurora Theatre shut down earlier this year, joining a list of closures that also includes the Bay Area Children's Theater, TheatreFirst and the California Jazz Conservatory's degree program."
Berkeley may place a parcel tax increasing property taxes by 7 cents per square foot to fund performing arts organizations. The levy would generate more than $5.5 million annually and cost about $105 per year for a 1,500 square-foot home. A coalition including Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Berkeley Symphony Orchestra and the Freight & Salvage is collecting signatures to place the measure on the ballot. Performing arts groups are still recovering from the pandemic and face dwindling federal support. Several local arts organizations have closed or cut programs, and some groups lack funds to contribute to the campaign. Berkeley Repertory Theatre reports a $5 million deficit.
Read at www.berkeleyside.org
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