The Associated Artists of Butler County is facing a dire financial situation putting the future of the organization in jeopardy.
We spoke with Ann Stockert who is the treasurer at the Art Center and she says the past few years have been challenging with the combination of COVID, operating expenses, and now an issue with the building that have forced the center to close indefinitely.
“On December 19th, the boiler system on the building that we released basically went down, so we were forced to close. Because the boiler is down, they have shut off our heat and water,” Stockert said. “The landlord is working with their insurance company, but at this point in time we have no return date.”
The Art Center is one of the longest cultural institutions in Butler, with the founding dating back to the 1930s.
Stockert says the group has looked at relocating the Art Center, but time is running out.
“To be really honest, I don’t believe we are in the position to wait and see,” Stockert said. “If we don’t get some help or if we’re not able to turn this thing around, I’m not sure we’ll be in existence in the next six months.”
Stockert says the board is looking for volunteers and ideas to help save the Art Center. Anyone who is interested can visit their website.
Hear Tracey Morgan’s full interview with Ann Stockert below:
