Feb 9, 2025
















Dear [City Council Member]-


I am an [artist, art advocate] who sees the importance of a thriving arts & culture community in Rock Hill, South Carolina. 


I’m troubled by the decision to sell the Tom S. Gettys Center (still commonly known as The Gettys Art Center). Beyond the economic impact on organizations and individuals it severely impacts the arts community of Rock Hill, as well as the culture of Rock Hill in general. The building’s current purpose as an arts space generates a massive cultural & economic impact within Rock Hill, and is an access point for those within this community (including Winthrop students & alumni) to connect at accessible and affordable arts spaces & events. 


According to the website for the Rock Hill/York County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Tom S. Gettys Center is a “true arts destination.” 


Is this cultural asset something the City Council really wants to eliminate, without first taking input from this community?


As for economic impact of the arts, the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) economic and social impact study of the nonprofit arts and culture industry. In York County, the sector generated $40.3 million in economic activity during 2022—$17.2 million in spending by arts and culture organizations and an additional $23.2 million in event-related expenditures by their audiences. That economic activity supported 665 jobs, provided $28.9 million in personal income to residents, and generated $8.5 million in tax revenue to local, state, and federal governments.


I request that the City Council please pause the sale of the Tom S. Gettys Center, and then enter a dialogue with established arts leaders within this community, including longstanding arts advocate and lifelong Rock Hill resident Harriet Goode and Executive Director of the Arts Council of York County, Melanie Cooper.


Respectfully submitted -