Oak Harbor arts foundation presents MOU, feasibility study for 500-seat performing-arts center

Cynthia Mason, president of the Oak Harbor Creative Arts Foundation, told the Jan. 27 workshop the foundation has begun a phase-1 feasibility study to test donor capacity and community interest in a performing-arts/events center and makerspace.

"The vision would be to reach about a 500 seat capacity," Mason said, describing the concept as intended to serve Whidbey Island and regional events. Mason said the foundation hired campaigncouncil.org for the donor-capacity work and has received grant support for the initial $35,000 study from the Whidbey Community Foundation and a state tourism board grant.

Councilmembers asked whether the arts proposal conflicts with a proposed municipal recreation center feasibility study. Staff said grant restrictions on the rec-center funding precluded combining the two projects, and that the foundation's work is privately funded and not intended as a ballot measure. Mason said the arts group plans to collaborate with existing local organizations, including the Whidbey Playhouse and other community stakeholders.

The council did not take formal action but voiced support and asked staff and the foundation to coordinate timing and public engagement with the rec-center feasibility process.