WW Arts Council Clarifies Budget Facts
For the record, I would like to clarify some facts about the West Windsor Arts Council that had been erroneously stated by a previous letter writer (The News, July 9).
1. WWAC is a 501(c)3 organization and raises its money through grants, donations, membership dues, and tickets.
2. WWAC pays a part-time executive director a modest salary from the money it raises.
3. WWAC will raise the money to pay any and all of its staff members.
4. WWAC is largely staffed by dedicated volunteers and board members who passionately believe in the importance of a community arts center in West Windsor.
5. The township owns the Princeton Junction Firehouse. It is an important historic building, and the township made a decision to spend the money to bring it up to code. In fact, the Arts Council only came into being as a result of a Mayor’s Task Force to find a good use for the building.
6. As per a lease agreement being negotiated, WWAC will pay rent to the township for use of the building.
7. West Windsor will benefit from the building in many ways. Its programs will serve all ages and abilities. It will bring jobs to the township and it will help to stimulate business in the region. Real estate agents are proud to show homes in an area where there is a vibrant cultural center. Teens can find a safe and enriching atmosphere at the arts center.
8. Visitors to the Arts Center will be able to park in the Wallace Road lot after 6 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends.
9. WWAC has raised 75 percent of its capital campaign, a modest goal of $300,000. Of that, $51,000 has gone into the firehouse for upgrades specific to an arts center.
10. Once the lease is signed, we will begin outfitting the building and look forward to our grand-opening celebrations beginning with a community block party September 25. There will be a wine and cheese reception for our first exhibit, Community Collage: West Windsor Then & Now, October 2, and our Five-Alarm Firehouse Fling will be held October 16. Please visit www.westwindsorarts.org for more information.
Ilene Dube
President,
West Windsor Arts Council
