INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Susan McGarry, executive director of the Cultural Council of Indian River County, is stepping down for medical and personal reasons. McGarry was named executive director in July after serving as the organization’s interim executive director since April.
“It really shocked us all,” said Cultural Council Board Member Robin Lloyd.
Lloyd told sister publication Vero Beach 32963 this week it was not clear when McGarry would step aside.
Board chairwoman Barbara Hoffman will oversee the day-to-day matters with the volunteers and keep the organization running until a new director is named, Lloyd said.
The search for a new director will begin later this fall.
For 16 years, the council has promoted artists, galleries and frame shops. It also stages art exhibits in public places.
Members pay dues although about half of its operating budget of $196,000 last year came from public coffers.
The council will not get any funding from the county this year and is still sorting out some funding possibilities with the Tourist Development Council.
News of McGarry’s resignation comes as the council kicks off the season with an event at the soon-to-be opened Osceola Bistro, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday evening.
