Resolution No. 5916, which was approved by the Independence City Council on May 19, 2014, created the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on the Visual Arts. The City Council later approved Resolution No. 6366, amending provisions for the Commission and updating the name to the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on the Arts. The role of the Commission was expanded with the adoption of Resolution 6218 on June 5, 2017, which created the “One Percent For The Arts” Program.

On June 9, 2022, the Commission sent a letter to Mayor Rory Rowland requesting support from the City to allow them to cease being a city commission, which allowed them to pursue creating a 501(c)(3) in an effort to explore opportunities for increased funding for the arts. Specifically, the letter stated the following:

"The Commission has concluded that the best solution would be to transition the Commission into a 501(c)(3) non-profit Arts Council which would partner with the City for promotion of the arts."

A copy of the letter is attached to this agenda item.

In response to the request from Mayor's Advisory Commission on the Arts, the Independence City Council voted unanimously on August 1, 2022 to approve Resolution No. 6845, thereby dissolving the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on the Arts.

On February 20, 2023, the City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 6902, which established the 2023-2024 City of Independence Action Plan. Among the strategic priorities of the Action Plan was direction to the City Manager to enhance City Committees and Advisory Boards. On June 20, 2023, the City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 6937, furthering efforts to complete Strategic Plan item 1.2.a by calling for the restructure or combination of City boards and committees to more effectively advise the City and engage the public. The City Manager will be presenting recommendations for City Council consideration at an upcoming Study Session.

At the September 11th, 2023 Study Session, the City Council discussed a request from Councilmember Mike Steinmeyer to add a resolution establishing the Independence Arts Commission. City staff was directed to add this resolution to the October 2nd Regular Meeting agenda.