Montgomery City Council resolves museum dispute, clears way for new leadership

Sherri Blevins

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June 5, 2025

After more than two years of tension and uncertainty, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is entering a new chapter. On Tuesday, the Montgomery City Council unanimously approved a measure that reaffirms the museum’s traditional dual governance structure, allowing both the City Museum Board and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Association to move forward in partnership.

According to WSFA, the agreement was finalized during a closed-door meeting between museum leaders, Mayor Steven Reed, and members of the City Council earlier that same day. It was the third version of the governance proposal, distinct from the two prior versions initially supported separately by the city and the museum board. The final compromise brings an end to a long-running dispute over oversight and formalizes a collaborative model that has guided the museum for nearly six decades.

The museum can now begin its long-delayed search for a permanent director. The position has remained vacant since early 2023. WAKA Action 8 News reports that the museum board is working with the Kittleman Group, a Chicago-based executive search firm, and the agreement allows for the hiring of an interim director during the search.

During the council meeting, a large group of museum supporters—including docents, donors, and local artists—attended to show their support for the resolution. Local artist Winfred Hawkins, whose solo exhibition opens at MMFA on June 27, addressed the council and encouraged the public to engage with the museum.

The council also unanimously approved a $169,090 HVAC contract to support infrastructure improvements at the museum, signaling a renewed investment in the institution’s long-term stability.

With the governance issue resolved, museum leaders say their focus will now return to rebuilding staff, hiring new leadership, and continuing the museum’s mission as a vital cultural anchor for Montgomery.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com

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