AUGUSTA, Ga. – In a recent development that has raised eyebrows in the local arts community, Denise Tucker, the executive director of the Greater Augusta Arts Council, addressed the City of Augusta’s decision to slash funding for local non-profit organizations. This decision was made official during the Augusta commission meeting, where the budget for the 2026 fiscal year was approved.

In a letter dated December 17, Tucker articulated her concerns regarding the budget cut, emphasizing the vital role that arts and cultural organizations play in the region. “The Greater Augusta River Region boasts over 176 arts and cultural nonprofits, more than 50 galleries, 238 performing arts groups, and 13 museums, employing an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 creative workers,” she noted. These workers span diverse fields such as design, marketing, media, culinary arts, fashion, production, and education. Tucker argued that these entities are not only employers but also key drivers of tourism, workforce attraction, and quality of life.

Tucker emphasized, “This is not a request for special treatment. It is a call to recognize reality.” While acknowledging the necessity for fiscal prudence and the challenge of making tough decisions, she cautioned against the complete elimination of discretionary funding for NGOs. “Such a move is destabilizing rather than strategic,” she warned, predicting that the repercussions of these cuts would ripple across the economy, the workforce, the youth, and local businesses, impacting even those who believe they remain unaffected.