Dear Centre 64 Members,

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On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Kimberley Arts Council-Centre 64 (KAC-C64), we wish to provide an update regarding recent events within the organization and address any rumors or misinformation that may be circulating.

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During the Society’s well-attended Annual General Meeting on May 5, 2024, the former KAC-C64 Board President addressed the Council’s disappointing financial results for the past year. Many questions from members in attendance focused on the future of Centre 64, should this pattern of losses continue, and what the Council was doing to ensure its financial survivability. Shortly thereafter, nominations were called, and the election resulted in the appointment of board members with strong business and financial backgrounds. This was a clear indication of the membership's desire for stronger financial controls and stricter budgeting to outline a path forward. It was recognized that in today's economic environment, it is unrealistic to rely solely on additional grant funding to cover operational and program budget shortfalls. Therefore, it is essential that the Kimberley Arts Council manages its limited resources responsibly.

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Following the election, the financial committee has worked diligently to update the overall operating budget and projected cash flow through December 31, 2024. These updates are being reviewed monthly, and various measures have been taken to tighten financial reporting, increase revenue streams, and create new programs that align with our mission of enhancing the artistic culture of our community and making the arts inviting and accessible to all.

 

Challenges and Harassment Concerns

Unfortunately, in implementing these necessary changes—including increasing user fees, enforcing strict adherence to board-approved budgets, and mandating user group inclusivity—we have encountered resistance. These implementations have led to harmful rumor's being directed at the Manager.

It is important to note that over the past year, the KAC board has received two formal harassment complaints from staff, in addition to multiple informal complaints. While one formal complaint has been resolved, partially due to board resignations, the other remains unresolved due to aggressive confrontations from certain user groups that are demanding special exceptions. This behavior is unacceptable, and the Board stands firmly behind its staff in its commitment to resolving these issues.

 

First Saturdays and Financial Mismanagement

A notable example of budgetary challenges involved the First Saturdays event series. The organizers requested an increase to their board-approved operating budget and sought to use event revenue to cover festival expenses, while refusing to contribute toward the general administrative costs of operating Centre 64. Additionally, they did not include Centre 64 in their advertising materials, despite utilizing the venue’s resources. As their request for additional funds required approval from the board of directors, and given their overspending, they were unable to proceed as planned. Accusations were then made that the General Manager was at fault, with claims that Centre 64 was "taking over" First Saturdays. In reality, the event organizers were simply unwilling to operate within their approved budget. As a result, Centre 64 will salvage what it can of the volunteer group and host Oktoberfest at Centre, while all Platzl activities have been canceled.

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Looking Forward

The ongoing tension between operating within the Kimberley Art Council's financial means versus pursuing unsustainable financial practices has led to several board resignations. The remaining Directors are dedicated to adopting a realistic and sustainable financial program. This commitment includes ensuring that Centre 64 remains an inclusive public space, free from closed membership groups, and accessible to the entire community.

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As mandated by the Society, the Board of Directors is working to ensure the financial survival of Centre 64. We are actively working to fill two additional board positions to complete the remainder of the term. We ask for your continued support in helping the Board achieve its clearly defined goals and in ensuring that Centre 64 remains a public resource for all. We encourage you to participate in the Centre 64 community survey to help us shape the future of our programs and ensure we continue to meet the needs of the public.

Thank you for your understanding and ongoing commitment to Centre 64.

 

Sincerely,
Edwin Alm, President