Cincinnati City Council on Wednesday approved a motion to allocate $8 million toward The Farmer Music Center, a step that advances funding for the $160 million project ahead of its planned spring 2027 opening.
Councilmember Anna Albi introduced the proposal Tuesday with four co-sponsors – Ryan James, Evan Nolan, Meeka Owens and Seth Walsh – effectively securing the votes before it reached the floor. Council followed through less than 24 hours later, passing the measure 5-4, with the remaining four members voting no.
While the motion passed, the funding isn’t final yet. Council still has to approve it as part of the city’s fiscal year 2027 budget.
Still, leaders with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and its subsidiary, Music & Event Management Inc. (MEMI), which will operate the venue, said the initial decision keeps the project moving forward…