Austin sends reps to Canada to discuss affordability for creatives

The Leadership Exchange Program is happening this June in Toronto, and representatives from the Economic Development Department will be attending to discuss affordability in the creative sector. Amsterdam, London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Warsaw will also be sending participants. The goal is to collectively brainstorm a shared list of “global best practices regarding retaining and growing affordable creative spaces in cities.” This is the first year for the conference, which is an initiative of the World Cities Culture Forum, a network of 35 cities established to promote collaboration and communication among city leaders about the importance of promoting culture. “The City of Austin recognizes the affordability crisis facing our citizens, including those in our creative community, and has identified this issue as a key priority,” said Meghan Wells, manager of Austin’s Cultural Arts Division, in a press release. “Participation in the Leadership Exchange Program will enable us to address this challenge with an eye toward what is working in other cities and develop creative solutions to add to our strategies and resources.”