The Civil Rights Center and Museum in Greensboro has formally asked city leaders for $1.5 million in funding.
Since the museum opened in 2010, it has run an annual deficit and failed to meet attendance goals. Museum leaders floated the idea of asking the city to help fund educational programs.
That idea was greeted with little enthusiasm. This formal request says the money will be used to better promote the museum and its programs.
"I am not supportive of the plan that is currently on the table. I do not think that they have a viable marketing plan and I think that has to be looked at much closer," says council member Nancy Vaughn.
Vaughn says the museum’s model has not been successful to this point. A constant criticism of the facility is that visitors must take a guided tour. Museum organizers say a self-guided tour will be offered by the end of the year.
Since 1995, the City of Greensboro has provided the museum with $975,000 in planning and support. The City Council could vote on the issue August 5.