Office of Cultural Affairs cancels ‘info session’ about controversial art ordinance

Folks hoping to learn more about Atlanta City Councilwoman Joyce Sheperd’s proposal to regulate art on private property at tomorrow night’s “information session” will have to make alternate plans.

City officials say the “information session” at the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center has been canceled. Writes OCA in an email:

We continue to believe that public input in the pending “Works of Art on Private Property” legislation is vital. At this time, the legislation is pending before the Atlanta City Council. As a result, we believe it is important that we allow the City Council’s legislative process to move forward. The process includes two opportunities for public comment: An April 17 hearing before the Zoning Review Board and a City Council committee meeting on April 24.

The administration is monitoring this legislation and, at the appropriate time, hope to schedule a public information session on the final process so that all stakeholders are well-informed of its impact. Understanding the final legislation proposed by the City Council will be critical to holding a public information meeting that is of the utmost benefit to the arts community and all stakeholders involved.

As noted above, there are still plans to allow public comment about the ordinance at future meetings. We’re double-checking those meeting dates, however.