To the Editor:

As a member of the Waynesville Public Art Commission from September 2006 to March 2011, I am very concerned about the misinformation presented in the ad placed in the Oct. 26/Nov. 1 issue of The Smoky Mountain News by the Waynesville-Haywood Concerned Citizens-PAC (page 14), on behalf of the following three candidates — Hugh Phillips, Sam Edwards and Julia Boyd Freeman.

During my 4.5 years on the commission I served as treasurer for two years and chair of the commission for one year.

The monies to purchase Old Time Music ($20,000), Celebrating Folkmoot ($20,000) and the Art connects the Parks Railing ($20,000) at the mini park, Main and Depot streets, was all donated by private individuals, local businesses and the Tourism Development Association.

No Town of Waynesville money was spent to pay the artists for their creations.

The Town of Waynesville does support the work of the commission with some funds, but the money spent to solicit art works, provide lighting, and install the works is minuscule compared to the benefits derived from these unique and special artworks that enhance our town.

I find it amazing that a group supporting candidates would place an ad before checking all their facts, and that the candidates would not do the proper research before allowing their names to be included.

Please help to set the facts straight. 

Kaaren Stoner

Haywood County