[YOUR NAME]

[YOUR ADDRESS]

Austin, TX [ZIP CODE]

[YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS]

[DATE]

 

Austin City Council

301 W. 2nd Street

Austin, TX 78701

 

Dear Members of the Austin City Council, 

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I am writing to you today to express my deep concern regarding the current status and future of the Dougherty Arts Center. As a committed resident and supporter of the arts, I am greatly troubled by the recent halt in progress and the proposed changes that threaten the future of this vital community resource. I urge the City Council to honor its commitment to funding and completing the replacement facility as originally designed as expressed in Resolution 20221208-068.

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The Dougherty Arts Center has long been a cornerstone of our city’s cultural landscape as well as an economic driver for Austin’s creative economy. Offering invaluable programs through the art school, theater, and gallery spaces, the Dougherty has helped to create Austin’s image as an attractive destination for local families, out of town visitors or new businesses. The existing building is undeniably unsafe due to asbestos and other structural issues, making the need for a new facility both urgent and non-negotiable. The planned new building was a beacon of hope for many of us, ensuring that future generations could continue to benefit from the rich array of artistic offerings that the Dougherty Arts Center provides. 

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The proposed changes to the original plan—reducing the scope of the new facility to only an art school—fail to address the needs and expectations of our community. Eliminating the theater and gallery undermines the very essence of the arts center and significantly diminishes its role as a vibrant cultural hub. The Dougherty Arts Center must remain a comprehensive facility that supports diverse forms of artistic expression and community engagement.

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We understand the financial constraints the city faces, but phasing construction and delivering a diminished facility is not a viable solution. This approach not only breaks the promise made to the community but also jeopardizes the long-term viability and success of the arts center. We do not support another costly and time-consuming community engagement process to redesign the building. The original plan was developed with extensive input and reflects the community's vision and needs. Please uphold the promise made to the community in December 2022 and deliver a new Dougherty Arts Center that includes all its essential components.

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Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter. I trust that the City Council will honor its promise and deliver a new Dougherty Arts Center that confirms Austin’s commitment to the arts as an essential service. 

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Sincerely, 

[YOUR NAME]