Peterborough’s 2025 draft budget includes a proposed 25% cut in funding to community arts organizations. Although this reduction may appear minor—saving $286,000 out of a $411 million budget—the impact would be significant. 

Why Arts Funding Matters 

The arts have a profound impact on both our community and economy. Research indicates that every dollar invested in the arts generates $25 in economic impact. In 2024 alone, City arts funding contributed an estimated $38 million in local economic benefits. These cuts risk not only reducing access to arts programming but also affecting other crucial funding sources, including grants and sponsorships that rely on City support. 

But it’s not just about numbers. Arts and cultural events foster community spirit, mental wellness, and a sense of belonging. At a time when the cost of living is rising, access to free and affordable events becomes even more important. 

How You Can Help 

We’re asking everyone who values the arts to take action and share their support. Here are a few ways to make a difference: 

1. Reach Out to City Council. Contact the Mayor and your City Councillors to voice your support for sustainable arts funding. Every message helps to emphasize the value of arts programming in Peterborough. 
2. Share Your Story. Personal stories are compelling. Whether on social media, local news outlets, or even among friends, let people know what the arts mean to you and why you support continued funding. 
3. Engage on Social Media. EC3 and other local organizations are sharing updates and information online. Boost their posts to help raise awareness within the community. 

Contacting City Council 

Here’s the contact information for the Mayor and City Councillors if you’d like to reach out directly: 

Mayor Jeff Leal – jleal@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 1870

Ward 1 – Otonabee

• Councillor Kevin Duguay: kduguay@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4619
• Councillor Lesley Parnell: lparnell@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4641

Ward 2 – Monaghan

• Councillor Matt Crowley: mcrowley@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4620
• Councillor Don Vassiliadis: dvassiliadis@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4645

Ward 3 – Town

• Councillor Alex Bierk: abierk@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4616
• Councillor Joy Lachica: jlachica@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4618

Ward 4 – Ashburnham

• Councillor Gary Baldwin: gbaldwin@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4647
• Councillor Keith Riel: kriel@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4640

Ward 5 – Northcrest

• Councillor Andrew Beamer: arbeamer@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4642
• Councillor Dave Haacke: dhaacke@peterborough.ca, 705-742-7777 ext. 4617

Your support is invaluable in helping keep Peterborough’s arts vibrant, accessible, and economically beneficial. Thank you for taking a moment to support the arts in our community! 

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