Access to Science, Heritage and Arts Programs
Cultural Access is a publicly funded program which expands community access to qualified 501(c)3 nonprofit programs in science, heritage, and the arts.
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It was created by state legislature in 2015 (RCW 36.160) and amended by HB1575/SB5612 in fiscal year 2023/24, which added Council Authority to enact it.
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Funds from 1/10% (.001) increase in sales taxing authority in Cities and Counties for up seven years (renewable).
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It is estimated that approximately $1.3m from Edmonds sales tax revenues would be available for Edmonds nonprofit organizations.
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The State Legislature key goals for Cultural Access programs: Broaden access to cultural experiences; provide educational opportunities for Grade School, Middle and High School students; support long-term sustainability for qualified nonprofits; stimulate local economies; advance cultural equity and post-pandemic recovery.
Where Can the Funds Go?
To qualified Edmonds-based arts, culture, heritage, and science/environment nonprofit organizations for their:
Who Would Administer the Program?
The Cultural Services Division and the City of Edmonds Arts Commission (EAC) will be the administrator. The program will be developed by the EAC and a stakeholder group. This group will also serve as a review panel once the application process is adopted. The EAC and this group are responsible for:
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Establishing goals and evaluation criteria
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Defining program categories and funding priorities
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Designing the application, review, and award process
What is the Impact?
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It offers a unique, dedicated, and significant funding support program for Edmonds-based arts, heritage, environmental and education nonprofit organizations. Approximately 25 qualified nonprofit organizations are based in Edmonds.
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It provides sustainable funding and access support in a time of increased costs and loss of available funding.
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Goes directly to programs and institutions which benefit our residents.
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Serves all Edmonds' neighborhoods.
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Requires access support for public school students to arts, science and heritage programs offered by qualified nonprofits, including transportation for field trips.
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Sales tax is paid by nonresidents as well as residents. Estimated 46% of sales tax is paid by nonresidents (source: 2017 Edmonds Arts Economic Impact Study).
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Estimated 64% of surveyed nonresidents indicate they will purchase a meal during their visit to Edmonds. Additionally, 19% indicate they will likely purchase something from a retailer during their visit (source: 2017 Edmonds Arts Economic Impact Study).
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Approximately 12% of Edmonds economy are arts and culture programs, events, classes and admissions (source: 2017 Edmonds Arts Economic Impact Study).
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Because the RCW gives specific and detailed guidance, it doesn’t leave undefined use of these revenues, while at the same time leaving flexibility for jurisdictions to develop a program that best serves its community.
Recommended Timeline for Implementation
August 2025: City Council enact an ordinance implementing the sales tax increase and direct staff to convene the EAC and stakeholder group to develop a program.
September 2025 - June 2026: EAC and City staff convene a stakeholder workgroup to develop the program for recommendation to Council by June 2026.
January 2026: Tax collection begins January 2026.
June 2026: Present the program recommendation as developed by EAC and stakeholder group and draft ordinance updates to reflect program specifics.
July-December 2026: Advertise the program and accept applications for programs starting in 2027.