Art Funds
On April 7, 2009, the City of Oak Harbor City Council commenced the funding of arts through a 0.25% tax on Water, Sewer, Solid Waste, and Storm Drain utilities via Ordinance 1547. Annual funds generated through this program have increased from $32,300 in 2011 to $60,600 in 2023. Per Chapter 3.26 of the Oak Harbor Municipal Code, the purpose of the Creative Arts Fund is:
- Foster arts and cultural programs for the enrichment of the city and its citizens.
- Foster the development of a local arts community.
- Coordinate and strengthen new and existing art organizations and develop cooperation with regional entities.
- Develop a program for public art.
- Further the vision of Oak Harbor as a vibrant and progressive community.
As of the 2022 audited City financials, the Creative Arts Fund had a balance of $242,000. The City Council approves the biennial budget for all funds, including the arts fund, every other year and considers and approves amendments to the budget on a periodic basis.
Since the City Council decided to fund the Arts Fund with utility taxes, accounting standards (Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statement 54) require that those funds be designated as “Committed” Funds. This differs from “Restricted” Funds as there are no outside constraints placed upon that funding (for example, from the State government, creditors, grantors, or contributors).