The board of The Dalles Art Center says it needs an on-going monthly funding level at a minimum of $3,500 by the end of the month, or it will close the Center after over 60 years of operation.  Board members say they are implementing a sustainability plan to reduce costs and increase revenues.  In a statement, the board says limited fundraising opportunities, in part due to the COVID pandemic and the subsequent financial recession, have been a challenge over the last three years, while inflation and other economic factors have created increased operational expenses.  The board eliminated the Executive Director’s position that had been held by Scott Stephenson, leaving gallery manager Kris Vercouteren as the only employee.  Along with finding the on-going monthly donations, the board wants to use the Center’s assets for revenue generation, such as space rental.  The Center also reduced its hours of operation to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays to Saturdays.