Voters Approve Tax Levy for Parrish Art Museum

According to the district clerk, the proposition passed with 77% of the votes in favor. The museum requested $326,509—the same amount approved by the community for the past seven years. The funding directly supports the Parrish’s exhibition and program expenses. Based on 2014-2015 tax rate, this amount translates to $7.75 per year for a home with an assessed value of $500,000.  

A total of 149 votes were cast this year, with 115 in favor and 34 opposed.

“We are deeply grateful for the community’s validation of the vital role the Parrish Art Museum plays on the East End of Long Island,” said Director Terrie Sultan. “The Museum continues to look for new ways to invite and welcome the community to be a part of the exciting work we do. This funding enables us to further expand the program of exhibitions, concerts, lectures, talks, films, and classes we offer year round.”

In recognition of the funds received though the tax levy, the museum initiated its Resident Benefits program in 2014 that provides residents of the Southampton Union Free School District—as well as employees of the District—free admission to the Parrish and many of its programs. The program also includes residents of the Tuckahoe Common School District and its employees. Tuckahoe also supports the museum through a tax levy. All residents of the two districts are eligible to enroll in Resident Benefits, and they may sign up online at parrishart.org/residentbenefits or in person at the museum.

Funds approved by the vote help to support the Parrish’s initiatives and outreach efforts, which include collaborating with local teachers to create on- and off-site programs; offering free admission on Wednesdays year-round, free admission every day to students and children under 18, and reduced admission to seniors; providing art classes, workshops and tours for children, teens and families; producing more than 90 public programs each year, including music, talks, and film; and presenting masterworks from the museum’s collection as well as five changing exhibitions each year.