28.01    ESTABLISHMENT.  There is hereby established a Marion Fine Arts Council, hereinafter referred to in this chapter as “the Arts Council.”  The Arts Council shall serve as an advisory body, and shall be composed of seven (7) persons at least five of whom are residents of the City, appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation by the City Council.  The members are to be appointed for staggered three-year terms.  The members so appointed shall serve without compensation.  In the event that vacancies may occur in membership of the Arts Council due to death, resignation or any other cause, the remaining members of the Arts Council shall be enabled to act even if the vacancy causes there to be fewer than four members who are residents of the City.  Whenever any vacancy on the Arts Council occurs, the remaining members of the Arts Council shall promptly recommend to the Mayor and City Council that a position is vacant and that it be filled for an unexpired term.                    (Ord. 00-34 – Nov. 00 Supp.)

28.02    POWERS AND DUTIES.  The Arts Council shall have the following powers and duties:

1.                  Establish its own rules of procedure.

2.                  Encourage the cooperation and coordination of projects in the field of arts and other creative events that will enhance the cultural level and activities of the arts in the community. 

3.                  Encourage individual and group activity in the area of creative writing, music, drama, plastic and visual art and related activity, as well as any special historical or other special events as directed by the City Council.

4.                  Cooperate with colleges and school districts in the Cedar Rapids-Marion area as well as other groups in the use of facilities and programs which may be available for future use to foster a broad arts program in the community.

5.                  Accept or reject gifts made or offered to the Arts Council for use in connection with the Marion Arts Programs.  (Gifts of money shall be deposited with the Finance Director and shall be credited to the Marion Arts Council Account.)

6.                  Use space designated by the Parks and Recreation Department in the Marion Community Center for programs and office needs.

7.                  Work with the Parks and Recreation Department of the City.  (Any matters requiring the use of funds shall be handled through the normal City receivables and disbursements procedures.)

8.                  Cooperate and coordinate activities with the Cedar Rapids-Marion Fine Arts Council, taking advantage of local and State program assistance.  (Members of the Marion Arts Council may be required to serve on the Cedar Rapids-Marion Fine Arts Council.)