Hamilton deputy mayor challenges council’s view towards arts community

Deputy Mayor Martin Gallagher challenged Hamilton City Council this morning to be consistent in their behaviour towards the arts community.

Gallagher’s challenge comes after Councillor Angela O’Leary secured a further $26,292 in funding for the Meteor Theatre.

Gallagher referenced the council’s treatment  of the Riverlea Theatre last year, after it spent 19 months fundraising to reach the discounted amount set by council for the theatre to buy the land it was one.

“What this council did to Riverlea last year, where you were going to sell by majority vote at the time the land from underneath them,” said Gallagher.

“The way council dealt in my view with that group was nothing short of disgraceful.”

“I’m so keen to be backing all these groups, the work they do with the young people in this city is fantastic.” 

“I think we should be immensely grateful for a team of volunteers that does so much.”

The Meteor, which is set to re-open on May 19, needed the money due to unforeseen work needed for earthquake strengthening.

The motion, moved by O’Leary was passed by a vote of 9-4.

Councillor Paula Southgate backed the funding, acknowledging the Meteor for their previous fundraisers.

“We need to get beyond so that the major assets of this city don’t stand and fall on cake stalls,” said Southgate.

“What we get out of that theatre is immense, with the range of activities not just standard theatre.”

Among those who voted against the grant were Mayor Andrew King and Councillor Leo Tooman.

“We don’t want to be seen as the bank where people come to when they are short of a dollar,” said Tooman.

The Meteor is scheduled to host its  first show on May 19.

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