We are grateful for the overwhelming support of voters in Eau
Claire County and the city of Eau Claire. The results demonstrate our fellow
citizens agree the Confluence Project represents a new way of government
institutions and private enterprise working together to create something that
no single entity could create alone: a first-class arts center that will
greatly benefit the community and the university alike.
But it is also important to note that much work lies ahead
if this project is to become reality. Typically, a referendum vote is the final
word on an issue. That clearly is not the case here.
The referendum results enable the process with our multiple
partners to proceed. Next steps include successfully reaching a development
agreement with the city; satisfying criteria set forth by the City Council, County
Board and UW System Board of Regents for funding commitments; securing support
from the Board of Regents, the governor’s office and state legislature; and
receiving the millions of dollars in philanthropy needed for construction of
the arts center.
Of course, as was the case with the new W.R. Davies Student
Center and Centennial Hall, should the arts center receive all necessary
funding, we would then undertake the considerable tasks of design and
construction.
Since I arrived as chancellor, I have consistently said that
I intend to integrate UW-Eau Claire more fully and meaningfully into the
community. I am committed to being a strong partner and hope the Confluence
Project is one of many productive partnerships to come.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the engagement of our
Student Senate in the Confluence Project referendum process. The Student Senate
played a critical role informing the student body about the project, including
enabling supporters and opponents alike to present their views, registering
fellow students to vote, and encouraging them to cast their ballots on election
day. I could not be more proud of the way our student leaders conducted
themselves. They made us all proud to be Blugolds!
