Orange County Delegation Meeting – Arts & Culture Funding Advocacy

Honorable Members of the Orange County Florida Legislative Delegation,

My name is Carroll Hanley Goggin

Thank you for the opportunity to speak before you today as a member and Chair of the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. I stand before you with a clear and powerful message: Investing in the Arts  is investing in Florida’s future.

First, thank you for your support last year by the restoration of state arts and culture funding. Your efforts made a real difference, and today, I’m asking you to stand with us again.

Florida’s nonprofit arts and culture sector, including here in Orange County, continues to face many challenges. Despite recent setbacks—such as state vetoes, reduced funding, and the elimination of public art programs—our organizations continue to thrive, creating, and serving our communities.

There are currently a total of 803 matching grant applications totaling $74,350,100 with some funding still pending panel reviews. The programs are thoroughly vetted and are a responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

These funds have made a difference right here in Orange County:

• Cultural Facilities funding that has elevated  Orange County organizations, including the Orlando Science Center, Orlando Family Stage, Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Garden and the Orlando Museum of Art, make improvements that enhance access and safety while providing richer cultural experiences.
• Previous or General Program Support have supported Crealde School of Art, the Orlando Ballet, The Orlando Philharmonic and more.
• In prior years Specific Cultural Project grants have supported DTO Jazz Fest, Snap! Culture Events and others.

These investments spark tourism, boost local economies, support education, support jobs and foster a strong sense of community pride.

However, we are at risk of losing critical gains. Many organizations face instability due to sudden changes in state guidelines. The uncertainty around state funding for 2026 could disrupt arts programs across the county.

Beyond economics, the arts are vital for cognitive development and creativity. As AI becomes more ingrained in our society, we must invest in the arts to nurture critical thinking and empathy.

We urge you to continue supporting arts funding, remain engaged with the upcoming funding recommendations, and be cautious of legislation like SB 1524 / HB 1011, which could harm arts grant eligibility.

In closing, arts and culture are not a luxury—they are essential infrastructure. I urge you today to prioritize arts and culture funding at the state level. Your support will help ensure Florida remains an economic powerhouse, a cultural leader and a place where future generations can thrive. Thank you.