Orlando Sentinel Article on SCAC, 12/12/2025

The Seminole Cultural Arts Council (SCAC) has been funded in part by Seminole County Government for 31 years. That funding remained largely unchanged until 2023, when the Seminole County Commission directed SCAC to assume responsibility for Seminole County’s grant program previously administered in-house. This increase in funding was neither requested nor solicited by SCAC. However, consistent with our mission to promote arts and culture in Seminole County, we agreed to undertake the administration of this program. As a result, in 2025, SCAC awarded nearly $28,000 to ten local nonprofit organizations following a rigorous application and review process.

SCAC adheres to the highest standards of accountability. This is one reason a Seminole County Government representative—appointed by Seminole County staff at the direction of the County Manager’s Office—serves as an ex-officio board member of SCAC. That representative attends board meetings and receives agendas, minutes, and all other documentation relevant to SCAC’s operations. Additionally, SCAC submits detailed quarterly reports to all County Commissioners, the County Manager, and the County Attorney’s Office to ensure full transparency and demonstrate responsible stewardship of Seminole County taxpayers’ dollars.

Each year, SCAC works closely with County staff to prepare our budget and annual contract. The 2025 cycle was no different. We submitted no request for additional funding for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. The proposed contract for this year mirrors prior years, and SCAC collaborated fully with County staff to provide all required documentation and respond to any inquiries regarding our budget and operations during the spring and summer months of this year. Throughout the months of budget workshops and public hearings preceding the adoption of Seminole County's 2025–2026 budget, no concerns or objections were raised by the public, County staff, or any of the County Commissioners.

SCAC remains committed to transparency and open communication. We welcome any questions and value dialogue that allows us to provide accurate information, address concerns, and remain focused on our core mission—enriching the lives of all Seminole County residents by ensuring the arts are accessible to everyone.

To view the article, please click on the URL below:
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https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/12/12/parents-supporters-urge-seminole-commissioners-not-to-cut-arts-funding/