Betrayal: Candidate John Laesch Promised "More Art, More Community," While Mayor John Laesch Proposes to Gut the Paramount Theatre with Budget that Will Force Layoffs and Program Cuts

City Council Must Act to Prevent Massive Job Cuts and Economic Hit

Assistant Executive Director for the Central Region Andrea Hoeschen released the following statement regarding arts funding cuts proposed by Mayor John Laesch:

"As a candidate, John Laesch won his election by some 514 votes by promising 'more art, more community,' and to 'continue supporting the Paramount' theatre. Should these cuts become final in the next city budget, they will mean fewer jobs and a hit to the city's economy.

"This budget is short-sighted and will only hurt the city in the long run because when people come to see shows at the Paramount Theatre, they don't just see a show, they spend money on everything from parking to nearby restaurants. That's why studies show that the average attendee generates another $38.46 per person, per event in economic activity beyond the cost of admission.

"The City Council should reverse these budget cuts that will harm the city's economy."

ACTORS' EQUITY ASSOCIATION, founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers. Equity endeavors to advance the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits (health and pension included). Member: AFL-CIO, FIA. www.actorsequity.org #EquityWorks

August 7, 2024

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