GOOD NEWS in Crisfield – October 2017 Newsletter

Hello, good people,
Here we are into October and at the end of the “season” in Crisfield, and we are still finding *Good News* happening now as well as things already getting in motion for the 2018 Season. Below are the details I’m able to share:
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT:

• Crisfield made another step of progress last week when Steven Skerritt-Davis, the Program Director for the Maryland State Arts Council, spoke before the Mayor and Council about the Arts & Entertainment Program and application process. This is the first such meeting before the Council, but Jen Rafter, the city’s grant writer, has held several meetings with the Somerset County Arts Council and others in the community about forming an A&E District in Crisfield that would likely include all of uptown and perhaps part of the downtown area. The exact boundaries haven’t been decided yet, but we do know there is good support in the community to see this move forward. It will likely come before City Council for a vote around the first of the year because February 1st is the deadline for beginning the application process by sending a letter of intent to apply. There are two primary benefits to having an Arts & Entertainment District: One is that the property owner would get a Real Property Tax Credit that would encourage renovation while discounting the property taxes on the improvements. Another benefit is that the program gives artists a reduction in state income tax for those working and selling in the district. These incentives would be substantial for those who convert the property into one of the eligible types of artistic work such as painting or carving, dance or performance, creation of original jewelry, clothing or design, etc. These types of businesses appeal to tourists who would purchase or support the activities being offered, along with Crisfield’s residents.

Read More