By Howard Packowitz
BLOOMINGTON – After Bloomington aldermen unanimously decided not to have VenuWorks run the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, the head of the city’s parks, recreation, and cultural arts department says it’s likely there will be fewer shows that can make money for the BCPA.
Jay Tetzloff told WJBC’s Susan Saunders it’s important to expose everyone to the arts, but also watch the bottom line.
Tetzloff said the VenuWorks proposal halted the search to replace BCPA director Tina Salamone, who died in March.
He said the five finalists will be contacted again.
“We’re going to find some dates in early December and say, ‘Please come in for an on-site interview,'” said Tetzloff.
“We will hopefully find a candidate we love,” he added.
Tetzloff said the center will have a development director responsible for raising funds. He said that position will be funded by donations from the group, Friends of the BCPA.
Tetzloff’s department will also be impacted by the city council’s directive to cut spending. He said city golf courses break even, and he’s not sure selling them would save money.
The department might have to trim staff, although there has not been a request. Tetzloff said a plan for a new swimming pool at O’Neil Park on the city’s west side might have to be delayed.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
