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Angela Baldwin, Chair of Theatre by the Bay provided a deputation in opposition to motion 13-G-019 concerning the 2013 Business Plan. She noted that she is opposed to the proposed $50,000 reduction to the Cultural Grants Program. She explained that she believes in the value of culture in the community and acknowledged that the arts community has been visibly vibrant in the past few years. Ms. Baldwin attributed a portion of the vibrancy to the Cultural Grants Program. She commented that she believes that culture is the heartbeat of a community and is a major economic driver. She stated that one of the main goals of Barrie's Strategic Plan is to attract new businesses and professionals to the City. Ms. Baldwin noted that she believes the quality of life is a reason someone would choose to live in Barrie and that culture is a key component to the quality of life. Ms. Baldwin observed that the Strategic Plan includes creating a vibrant city centre and stated that she believes the Mady Centre has provided a home for the arts and brings people downtown. Ms Baldwin provided the history of the Theatre by the Bay and described a number of programs the theatre group offers. She explained that the theatre group has been the recipient of cultural grants from the City in the past and that the theatre group depends on the grants to assist with the operations. Ms. Baldwin described the number of volunteers who devote their time to the theatre group. She commented that the theatre group applies for Federal and Provincial grants and that City support is paramount in securing these grants. She concluded by stating that she believes the arts is a good investment for the City as she feels it benefits the City. Ms. Baldwin encouraged City Council to re-consider the cuts to the Cultural Grants Program.
Mayor Lehman asked a question concerning the information provided and received a response from the presenter.