Metro Arts sets grant-panel dates, packet and conflict-of-interest deadlines ahead of August funding vote

Metro Arts staff briefed commissioners on an accelerated grants calendar ahead of the August funding decision. Staff said panel review days are scheduled for the 29th and 30th of the month and encouraged commissioners to attend panel sessions; the full grants packet and conflict-of-interest forms will be distributed no later than August 6 to give commissioners time to prepare. The grants committee will meet August 10 to review panel recommendations and the commission is scheduled to make funding decisions at its August 19 meeting.

"Our goal is to send the packet out, including the conflict-of-interest forms, no later than August 6," staff said. Panel dates and committee logistics were emphasized as time-sensitive; staff asked commissioners to notify staff of availability for panel participation. Commissioners were reminded that grant panel participation is a key way to review proposals and that participation helps ensure informed funding decisions.