Honorable Mayor & Council Members:
Nearly every city and county in the nation has an ART COMMISSION, but for some unknown reason, the City of Menlo Park does not. Why is that?
Over 300 cities in California has an Art Commission as well as most of the 58 Counties in California. Can you explain to me WHY you value so little the importance of emphasizing one of the best parts of life, being the many forms of Art, such as dance, music, sculpture, painting, etc. isnt important to you - leaving it to others to provide?
Menlo Park paid for part of the construction of the MENLO ATHERTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (MA PAC) allowing for use of it several times a year. Is that money down the drain?
Years ago, Menlo Park had an active, seven member, volunteer Art Commission, much like you do for Planning, Library, Transportation, etc. Over a dispute, all seven members QUIT. The City had the right, if not the obligation, to appoint new MEMBERS. Are you willing to do that now? I have not doubt our wonderful community would have citizens willing to participate in the formation of a new Art Commission.
Please dont ignore this request. This OPPORTUNITY affords great benefits and can make a noticeable and significant difference in the lives of our youth and adults alike. Please follow the lead of Redwood City, Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara and many other neighboring cities.
THANK YOU for your time and consideration and for all you do all year to help make Menlo Park a special place.
Respectfully, Jim Lewis
