Rick Stein

The meeting included reports from the Chair and Executive Director regarding the agency's 50th anniversary, the FY 2026-27 budget, arts in corrections, and grant cycle timelines. An Ad Hoc committee provided updates on anniversary planning and arts awards. The Equity Committee facilitated a discussion on advancing equity through data-informed decision-making, including the use of a Decision Support Tool and the Healthy Places Index, with a specific focus on ensuring culturally responsive program design for Native American communities. Additionally, committee updates were provided on legislative priorities, and a memorial acknowledgement was held for members of the arts community.

The Council conducted various business items including a presentation on the Creative Economy Strategic Plan and the adoption of the 2026-27 grant guidelines framework, which incorporates new weighting systems for funding priority. Council elections were held, resulting in the re-election of the Chair and the election of a new Vice Chair. Additionally, the Council ratified the selection of 10 new statewide cultural districts and approved technical amendments for the 50th Anniversary Arts Award committee process. Reports were provided on the progress of various committees, and a tribute was held for individuals who passed away.

The meeting agenda includes a series of reports from the Chair and Executive Director, followed by voting on the 2027-2032 Strategic Plan recommendations. The session features presentations on the Native American Artist Grant Program and the Folk and Traditional Arts program. Additionally, the Council will review reports from the 50th Anniversary and Legislative committees and engage in open council discussion and an in memoriam tribute.

The meeting includes various agenda items such as roll call, land and peoples acknowledgement, community agreements, opening remarks, welcome addresses, chair's report, and executive director's report. The council will vote on meeting minutes and 2026 council meeting dates. There will be council elections, a presentation on the Creative Economy Report, and a vote on the CAC Grant Guidelines Framework. Discussions will be held by the Equity Committee, and the Ad Hoc 50th Anniversary Arts Award Committee will provide an administrative amendment to the Arts Award Criteria and Process. Committee reports will be given, and the council will vote on the Cultural District Designation and Award. The meeting will also include a general public comment period, open council discussion, an In Memoriam segment, and closing remarks.

The California Arts Council held a public meeting to discuss various items. The council discussed and voted on the 2026 Council Meeting Dates, Council Elections, Programs Policy Committee recommendations for the CAC Grant Guidelines Framework, and the Ad Hoc 50th Anniversary Arts Award Committee's administrative amendment to the Arts Award Criteria and Process. The council also discussed the Equity Committee and received committee reports from the Legislative Committee, Ad Hoc 50th Anniversary Committee, Ad Hoc 50th Anniversary Fundraising & Sponsorships Committee, and Ad Hoc Partnerships Committee. Furthermore, the council voted on the Cultural District Designation and Award, and held an open council discussion.