RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Arts Council reviewed the success of this year's Make Music Day celebration, discussed recruiting new members and volunteers, and learned that Ridgefield has been selected for a statewide cultural district development program during its July 8 meeting.
The council unanimously approved the minutes of its June meeting and received a treasurer's report indicating that expenses for the Behind the Scenes program had been submitted, Planning and Zoning expenses related to Make Music Day would be submitted by July 29, and the council's 2026-27 budget had been approved at a flat funding level.
During a recap of Make Music Day, members described the June event as successful, citing favorable weekend scheduling, good weather, targeted marketing and the return of many performers. Members also said bands performing at Ballard Park attracted large crowds and credited council volunteers for supporting planning and event-day activities. The council plans to begin planning next year's event in the coming months.
Members also received an update on the Ridgefield Cultural District Working Group. The Connecticut Office of the Arts selected Ridgefield and Bristol to participate in the ASCEND Program, which will provide one year of consultation to support strategy and development of the communities' cultural districts.
Members also discussed recruiting additional council members and creating a volunteer subcommittee to support events such as Make Music Day. The proposed volunteer program would compile opportunities throughout the year to build a pool of community volunteers.
The council also noted that Nicholas Catino and Renee Brown-Cheng have resigned from the Arts Council. Members said Pamme Jones is expected to resign from the council if she is appointed to fill a vacancy on the Ridgefield Economic and Community Development Commission, pending approval by the commission and the Board of Selectpersons. The council chair will circulate information on the political balance of the remaining membership.
The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m. The council's next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 5.
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