The Montgomery City Council is set to discuss a new ordinance that could reshape governance at the Montgomery Museum of Art (MMFA). This proposal aims to clarify the roles, authority, and management of city-owned agencies, following a period of tension between city officials and museum leadership.
As reported, the new ordinance would increase the museum’s board to 15 members. Six of these would be chosen by the Montgomery Museum Association, while the other nine would represent various city council districts. Additionally, board terms would be extended from four years to six, with members limited to two consecutive terms, and there will be room for up to five non-voting advisory members for one-year terms.
This move comes in light of ongoing conflicts surrounding the museum’s management. Earlier this year, the museum director was put on administrative leave by Mayor Stephen Reed—a decision made without consulting the Museum Committee, which set off a series of disputes regarding governance and authority.
MMFA operates under two organizations: the City Museum Committee, which has the legal authority for museum management, and the Association, a nonprofit that traditionally handles curation and fundraising. The core issue is the city’s claim of legal control over museum operations, pointing to previous actions by the Association as violations of city procedures, including contract approvals and placement of signage.
In February, the city clarified its stance, asserting that the Association does not hold legal governance authority, and claimed that ongoing disputes have hindered the search for a permanent museum director. The city referenced opinions from Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, who affirmed that the City Museum Committee holds ultimate authority in appointments related to the museum’s governance and management.
Members of the museum’s joint committee, representing both the city committee and the Association, pushed back against the city’s claims. They argue that the museum has thrived on a successful public-private partnership, with the Association owning the art collection and actively participating in curating exhibits.
The ordinance and another governance agreement, which will be discussed during the council meeting, emphasize the need for clear definitions of roles and responsibilities moving forward. This agreement was initially shared in a council meeting in May but was delayed to allow for additional review.
Work sessions for the Montgomery City Council are scheduled to start at 4 PM, with regular meetings to follow on June 3rd at 5 PM.
