Muskoka Arts & Crafts funding request sparks debate

Councilors were concerned over fairness and the impact on taxpayers

Bracebridge General Committee voted to refer a funding request from Muskoka Arts & Crafts to the Mayor's 2027 Budget and Business Plan during its November 3, 2026, meeting.

In a letter to Council, Executive Director, Nichole Kitchen, requested that the Town waive the annual $6,111.30 rental fee for Annie Williams Memorial Park and provide a guaranteed annual Event Tourism Grant of up to $5,000 to support the organization's Summer Show.

The organization also requested $20,000 annually in operational funding for five years ($100,000 total) to support community programming, events and MA&C on Main, its downtown gallery.

Kitchen's letter highlighted the organization's 64-year Summer Show tradition, which generates more than $1 million in local economic activity, and expressed interest in a future partnership involving the former Rona/Timber Mart lands.

During discussions, Councillor Andrew Struthers praised the organization's year-round contributions and sought clarification about whether multi-year funding could be guaranteed.

Director of Finance/Treasurer, Paul Judson, explained that multi-year agreements remain subject to annual budget allocations, while longer-term contractual commitments are a separate consideration.

Councillor, Archie Buie, questioned why the request was not being handled through the Town's existing Event Tourism Grant program, which considers similar funding requests annually.

Staff explained that the program has limitations and does not fully accommodate the organization's existing programming.

Buie raised concerns about the proposed fee waiver and funding commitments.

"That's a significant reduction on revenues. That's going to have an impact on taxpayers," he said.

He argued that Muskoka Arts & Crafts should be evaluated alongside other applicants rather than receive "special treatment."

Councillor, Debbie Vernon, emphasized the organization's contributions to tourism, the local economy and community well-being.

"It's important to note how much the art community supports our economy and the health and well-being of our citizens," Vernon said.

Councillor, Barb McMurray, questioned whether approving the request could establish a precedent, by “opening a door.” She also pointed to the Bracebridge Farmers' Market, which she said has operated for 30 years and pays to use the park.

"They pay annual dues," she said, emphasizing the importance of considering all organizations fairly.

Mayor, Rick Maloney, indicated that the request differs from others and supported having staff examine the implications before budget deliberations. He said, “Council needs to understand what this ask looks like and if it may or not fit the budget and go from there.”

Judson confirmed that staff had not yet evaluated all aspects of the proposal. He said, “We haven’t done the work yet to evaluate all nuances if the request.”

Chief Administrative Officer, Stephen Rettie, emphasized transparency and consistency when considering funding requests.

"If you're going to fit one different than the others, there has to be substantial reasons why," Rettie said.

The committee supported referring the request for consideration during the 2027 budget process.