Recent staffing cuts to Michigan Arts and Culture Council leaves the agency scrambling

The Michigan Arts and Culture Council is a state agency that distributes grants to creative and cultural projects. 

While the core components of the MACC include economic development, education, and engagement, the group also forms strategies on funding, leadership, resources, outreach and research.

Recently, the MACC cut three positions from its seven person staff. Nafeesah Symonette, vice-chair of the MACC board, said they were not notified of any staffing cuts. 

This comes as grant proposals are being collected through the end of October, with funds  being distributed to grant recipients by Jan. 1. Symonette says the cuts will directly impact the MACC’s ability to process and distribute grants.

It's important to note that the MACC answers to The Michigan Economic Development Corporation.  

Symonette joins The Metro to discuss what happens behind the scenes and the waning interest of arts and culture in Lansing.

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