I am writing in opposition to increased COBI funding for the arts through BIAHC. The city has more pressing needs right now to basic services in this down economy.

The arts have been generously funded in years past while basic needs outside of the Winslow core have gone begging. For example, Fort Ward Hill Road (the Dead Man’s Curve upper portion) has been on and off the budget since before my daughter was born, and she’s now at community college!

Artists who are truly creative can be creative. As a filmmaker and poet, I produce films and text on my own dime. I do not expect COBI to fund my endeavors. Years ago, I received a modest grant to document the history of the Filipino-American community. I would gladly forgo future grants for the good of the community as a whole.

Please do not spend money you don’t have. Respectfully,

Mary Victoria Dombrowski

Fort Ward