The University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents will consider whether to work with the state to fund a proposed performing arts center in Eau Claire on Thursday.
Supporters of a proposed three-theater performing arts center known as the Confluence Project in Eau Claire’s downtown have been lobbying the UW System for $25 million to help build it. Regents, however, didn’t include that request in their capital budget.
State Rep. Steve Nass, R-Whitewater, a vocal opponent of the project, applauded the decision, calling it a victory for taxpayers and major setback to the project. Project supporters, however, aren’t fazed, since tomorrow the regents will vote on a resolution directing the UW System to work with the Department of Administration to get the project funded.
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During a visit to Eau Claire in June, Gov. Scott Walker said that even if the regents don’t vote on the funding, he’d look at state grants to fund it.
“One way or another, we’re going to find a way to make this go forward,” said Walker.
Mike Rindo, UW-Eau Claire’s assistant vice chancellor of facilities and a Confluence Council member, said the governor’s pledge tipped the scales toward urging the regents to work with the governor. Rindo said if regents approve the resolution, state support is still on the table.
“Both paths, while different, lead to the same destination, which is securing state funding for the project,” said Rindo. “That’s ultimately what the goal is.”
Rindo said using a state grant instead of direct UW System funding will mean the state would have no ownership of the performing arts center.
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