Tacoma Creates is focused on community programs. Keep it that way | Opinion

Seven years ago, we asked Tacoma voters a powerful question: As our city grows, how do we preserve — and expand — the sense of community that makes Tacoma special?

The response was historic. In every one of Tacoma’s 103 voting precincts, voters overwhelmingly supported the creation of Tacoma Creates — a 1/10 of 1% sales tax (that’s a penny on $10) to support nonprofit arts, culture, science and heritage programming across the city.

The impact has been extraordinary.

In the upcoming year, 80 organizations will receive Tacoma Creates funding — providing vital stability at a time when other funding sources are uncertain, including the proposed elimination of Federal both the National Endowment for Arts and the National Endowment for Humanities. The most recent data from the 2023–24 funding cycle shows:

• Over 1 million attendees across funded programs and events
• 1,200+ programs and events produced, nearly 80% of which were free to the public
• 114 free workshops hosted at Tacoma Public Library branches by 30+ organizations
• Programming delivered in neighborhoods citywide — explore the interactive map
• $1.1 million allocated for partnership programs with Tacoma Public Schools
• 100% of TPS schools connected with at least one Tacoma Creates organization

Tacoma Creates is working. It’s delivering on the promises made to voters: enriching lives, especially for youth and strengthening the fabric of our community.

Now, there’s a threat to programming funding.

Under state law, Tacoma Creates must be reauthorized every seven years. The City Council has the authority to do so — and by all accounts, the mayor and council members are enthusiastic supporters of the program. However, council members sponsoring the reauthorization are proposing significant changes that diverge from original voter intent:

• Reducing programming funding from 78% to 70% of tax revenue
• Redirecting 6% of program funds to a capital pool for real estate, improvements and equipment

While capital investments may sound appealing, they were never part of the original voter mandate. Redirecting funds away from programming when program funds are tight:

• Shrinks opportunities for community engagement
• Benefits only a small number of organizations
• Risks increasing administrative overhead
• Could deepen inequities in access and funding

Programming is at the heart of Tacoma Creates.

Tacoma Creates was built to provide engaging, affirming and impactful experiences — especially for youth. Programming fosters belonging, creativity, and pride in our city. It is the reason voters said “yes.” We urge Tacoma City Council to honor that commitment. Let’s keep Tacoma Creates focused on what matters most: people, programs and community.

David Fischer is president and general manager at Pacific Public Media, formerly the CEO of Tacoma Arts Live. Lance Kagey is the owner and creative director at Rotator Studio. Both were instrumental in planning and executing the campaign that led to the passage of Proposition 1 to create the Tacoma Creates authorization.