Leonardo

What's up with the Leonardo, anyway? The Body Worlds 3 exhibit is highlighting the Art, Science, and Culture Center at the Old Main Library just as The Leonardo organization is struggling to find its footing with leadership, planning, and fundraising. Having lost a fierce advocate at City Hall in former Mayor Rocky Anderson, The Leonardo has entered a new era in its relationship with the City. Because of serious questions about plans and long-term viability of The Leonardo, the $10.2 million sales tax bond passed by voters in 2003 has not been released by the City Council.

The City and The Leonardo entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in August of 2008, with the intent of working together to try to resolve outstanding issues and questions. A group of Salt Lake City Administrators, Council Staff, and Leonardo management are working on an agreement for the intended use of the building, construction plans consistent with the agreed-upon use assumptions, the bond matching funds agreement, and on The Leonardo's business plan and business viability. 

Council Member Garrott is a strong supporter of The Leonardo, and is trying to bring along the more skeptical factions at City Hall.