The Quinte Arts Council AGM brings on new board members

The Quinte Arts Council (QAC) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on July 16, 2024. This significant event brings together members, staff, supporters and the community to reflect on the past year’s achievements and discuss future goals.

Welcome to the Territory

The meeting began with a warm and genuine welcome by the QAC Chair, Brit Johnston, that the QAC is located on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat, the Anishnaabeg, and the Haudenosaunee people. We are connected to and neighbours with the Kanien’keha:ka community of Tyendinaga. This welcome is a reminder of the enduring presence and contributions of Indigenous peoples to our community.

Welcome and Introductions

Rick Moulton, Vice Chair, opened the meeting by introducing himself and the other board members: Brit Johnston, Chair, Andrea Kerr, Past Chair, Rachael Lidstone, Treasurer and Maury Flunder, Director.

He also recognized the dedicated staff of the Quinte Arts Council:

• Janet Jarrell, Executive Director
• Kodie Trahan-Guay, Communications & Media Director
• Tonya Sutherland-Stewart, Program Director
• Kim Lidstone, Bookkeeper
• Andrew Gray, Graphic Designer for the Umbrella Magazine

Acknowledgment of Program Funders

Brit Johnston, Chair, expressed gratitude to the program funders whose support is invaluable to the QAC:

• City of Belleville
• Parrott Foundation
• Ontario Arts Council (OAC)
• Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board
• McDougall Insurance
• Patron Ralph Johnston

Member and Attendee Appreciation

Brit also thanked the members and attendees, emphasizing the importance of their input and participation in shaping the future of the QAC. Attendees were encouraged to fill out a member questionnaire to provide their thoughts and feedback. Attendees included members from the symphony, community theatre, rural arts councils (Tweed, QW, Brighton), dance organizations, visual artists, musician promoters, patrons of the arts, volunteers, marketing consultants and community members.

Elections and Nominations to the Board of Directors

Brit announced the outgoing and ongoing board members and introduced the newly elected board directors:

• Maribeth deSnoo: With over 35 years of experience in executive and non-profit program management, Maribeth has been a valuable contributor to the Fund Development committee.
• Sean Sroka: A creative producer, songwriter (Ten Kills the Pack), and project manager, Sean is eager to build relationships within the Quinte arts community.

A motion to approve the current board and the slate for the coming year was passed. The QAC is still seeking additional board members with expertise in law and arts education.

Reports

• 2023 Annual Report: Presented by Janet Jarrell, Executive Director, and approved by the members. Recognized staff, Kodie was presented with a thank you gift for 2 years at the QAC. Volunteers acknowledged: Lorraine Huebner, Judy Bridle, Ron Smith, Hillary Dorricott, Janet Cameron and Ruth Hatton
• Treasurer’s Report: Presented by Rachael Lidstone, Treasurer, and approved by the members.

Approval of Accountancy

The members approved Welch LLP – Chartered Professional Accountants to complete the financials for 2024.

Approval of Updated Bylaws

Andrea Kerr summarized the work from the Governance Committee on the updated bylaws required by the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA). The updated bylaws were approved following a motion, second, and vote.

The Quinte Arts Council looks forward to another year of fostering arts and culture in the Quinte region, with the continued support and engagement of its members and community.