MAC board must explain firing

At its May meeting, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture board made clear to MAC supporters in attendance that recent leadership changes were none of our business. One board member proclaimed the community’s concern was about as inappropriate as us weighing in with football team owners on their firing of a coach. The problematic firing of the museum director foreshadowed a larger problem: The MAC board’s profession that they are accountable to no one.

At the June board meeting, MAC supporters were excluded for two hours while the board conducted a closed session. When we were finally allowed to participate, the shrill defensiveness of the board seen at the prior meeting was at least reduced. Nonetheless, they seem to have no idea how to bring back into the fold community supporters that they so desperately need given reductions in state funding.

The MAC board must reach out to the community and explain their vision for the museum, e.g., public forums. Likewise, we immediately need more community involvement at the MAC, e.g., volunteering or attending the next board meeting (noon, July 3). If you haven’t visited the MAC recently, go and discover why we are so passionate about our museum.

David Snowdon

Spokane