Thoughts on the Playhouse contribution

My thoughts on the action of the Flat Rock Village Council to contribute $100,000 to the Flat Rock Playhouse: overall, a good move.

I know some people disagree, but I have no problem with a governing body (especially a local body) contributing to the arts as long as those contributions do not become a "permanent funding mechanism" (i.e., tax money committed automatically on a regular basis). Any non-profit asking for taxpayer dollars should be required to do so on a regular basis through a transparent grant process.

I think Flat Rock struck the right note here: the contingencies in place ensure that the money is going to pay down debt, not go to operating expenses (and yes, I know money is fungible, but this stipulation does require the money go directly to United Community Bank), and that the Playhouse cannot expect continued assistance.

Although the village does have a ban on contributing to non-profits, I think they were correct in over-ruling that ban in this instance, for several reasons:

• The Flat Rock Playhouse has been here for 60 years, starting in the old mill at Highland Lake. It is an established, as-local-as-can-be art theater with a national reputation. 
• Local merchants and businesses as well as many homeowners were involved in advocating for the theater. They pay village taxes, too, and deserve to have their views considered.
• The Playhouse draws tourists and others in Henderson and surrounding counties to the village, where they spend money and help increase our tax base. 
• The Village of Flat Rock enjoys higher property values and attracts residents with higher incomes than average for North Carolina. Part of why people choose to live here comes from what is offered here, and the Playhouse is part of that, creating an artistic atmosphere that enhances the overall quality of life of the residents.  

For these reasons, I think the village council made the right decision. Any thoughts?