Fulton doles out $1.48 million in arts grants

Fulton County has awarded $1.48 million in grants to some 89 nonprofit arts organizations, such as theater, dance, music and youth groups. The recipients include the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High Museum of Art, the Center for Puppetry Arts and the National Black Arts Festival.

Fulton, with an arts budget of $5.2 million, is the state's biggest supporter of the arts. Known as the contract for services program, the annual grants are considered a quality of life investment. But facing a $74.1 million deficit next year, several commissioners warned nonprofits not to expect as much funding in coming years. This year's grants are down $87,000.