GALVESTON — The City of Galveston is now accepting applications for the brand new Arts Development Commission. Seven positions on the commission and two advisory seats are now open for hiring.

On October 23, City Council voted to conceive the Arts Development Commission, a unified arts board that combined of both Arts & Historic Preservation Advisory Board and the Culture Arts Commission. Both programs were dissolved by City Council to create this newly-made commission, though the existing members are still welcome to apply.

The Arts Development Commission is responsible for making recommendations to council about how to spend hotel occupancy tax designated for the arts. This includes recommendations on arts and historic preservation non-profit organizations marketing and even support, and the funding of artists, collectives, and organizations for public art.

Candidates interested can access and fill out an electronic application online at:
www.galvestontx.gov/servemycity

For questions regarding the application, you may email the City Secretary’s email group at CitySec@galvestontx.gov or call at 409-797-3510.

Applicants for individuals with experience and expertise willing need to have one or more of the following:

–Arts Development & Public Art – knowledge of visual, performing, literary, or multidisciplinary arts; experience commissioning, curating, or managing public art projects.
–Cultural Programming & Events – experience developing, producing, or marketing cultural events, festivals, or creative placemaking initiatives that attract visitors and enrich community life.
–Grantmaking & Nonprofit Management – familiarity with arts funding, grant writing, project evaluation, nonprofit finance, and public accountability standards.
–Economic and Community Development – understanding of how cultural investment intersects with downtown development, tourism, and place-based revitalization.
–Historic Preservation & Heritage Tourism – awareness of how Galveston’s architectural and cultural heritage can be leveraged for tourism and education.
–Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) and Public Finance – knowledge of state and local regulations governing HOT allocations, including the “two-part test” (projects must both promote tourism and fall within an authorized use such as promotion of the arts or historic preservation).
–Citywide Event Logistics & Operations – experience with permitting, public space management, accessibility, and event safety planning.
–Arts Education & Community Engagement – background in education, outreach, or developing programs that expand access to arts participation across diverse communities.
–Creative Industry and Media Development – familiarity with Texas creative economy initiatives, such as the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program.

Preferred Qualities:

-Strategic, investment-minded approach to cultural development and tourism growth.
-Collaborative spirit and ability to work with artists, nonprofit organizations, City departments, and local businesses.
-Commitment to transparency, inclusion, and equity in arts funding.
-Strong analytical and communication skills for evaluating grant proposals and outcomes.

Applicants must be residents of Galveston.

Byline: Luke Myslik