Legislators McKimmie, Farruggia & Elder present cultural endowment funding to Niagara Falls organizations

Submitted by Niagara County Legislator Christopher McKimmie

Niagara County legislators Christopher McKimmie (3rd District), Sam Farruggia (6th District) and Jeffrey Elder (4th District) recently announced cultural endowment fund awards to three Niagara Falls organizations in recognition of their contributions to the community's arts, culture, education and tourism sectors. The funding awards included:

•Aquarium of Niagara, $62,170

•Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission, $11,491

•Niagara Arts & Cultural Center, $9,115

Notably, both the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission and the NACC received increased funding compared to last year. The former’s award increased from $5,687.98 last year to $11,491 this year, while the latter’s award increased from $6,852.51 to $9,115, reflecting the continued growth and impact of both organizations within the community.

Collectively, these awards are part of this year’s $295,000 in funding provided to arts and cultural organizations throughout Niagara County, reflecting the Niagara County Legislature's ongoing commitment to supporting institutions that contribute to the area’s cultural vitality and tourism economy.

Other organizations receiving funding include Old Fort Niagara, Artpark, the Castellani Art Museum, the West Herr Riviera Theatre, the Kenan Center, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, and the Historic Palace Theater.

"As a member of the county’s economic development committee, I understand the important role that arts, cultural and tourism organizations play in strengthening our local economy,” McKimmie said. "The Aquarium of Niagara, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission, and the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center are not only treasured community assets, but they also help attract visitors, support local businesses, and contribute to the continued growth of Niagara Falls."

The cultural endowment fund was established by the Niagara County Legislature as part of the 2024 county budget to support arts and cultural organizations that enhance Niagara County's tourism economy, preserve local history, and improve quality of life for residents. The fund is financed through Niagara County's share of revenues generated by the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp., allowing the county to invest in cultural institutions without relying on property tax or sales tax revenue.

Through investments like these, Niagara County continues to support organizations that strengthen the community, attract visitors, and contribute to the local economy.