The long-awaited Austin Music Department may finally be a reality. For years, music industry insiders have lobbied the city to create a department dedicated to Austin’s music scene. The expected goal of this city office is to deal with issues such as parking, the noise ordinance, permits, and creating incentives to increase the impact of music on Austin’s economy. Proponents feel the city is not doing enough to promote and support local music here in the Live Music Capitol of the World.
Currently, the city addresses the music scene through it’s Cultural Arts division. Supporters of the new music office point out that the Cultural Arts division isn’t doing enough to promote and realize the economic potential of Austin music. The Cultural Arts Division is responsible for the Cultural Arts Funding Programs, Art in Public Places Program, community based arts development, and programs to assist the development of music, film, and creative industries.
City Manager Marc Ott and his staff have been tasked with coming up with proposals for the establishment of the city’s first music department, which would be dedicated to music-related issues and economic development. The city manager’s office has been working on proposals for a budget and structure for the department. After asking for an extension in late February, Ott is expected to submit the report and brief council members on May 14.
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