National Arts Chief Hunt Nets a Resident

The city that already has launched an Artists Village has hired its first arts administrator.

Jim Gilliam of Santa Ana will have a number of responsibilities, such as writing grant proposals, coordinating arts events and acting as a liaison to the arts community, said Cindy Nelson, executive director of community development.

Gilliam is executive manager of Imagination Celebration, a multi-city youth arts festival in Orange County.

He was chosen from about 50 applicants from across the country.

He will receive $43,680 a year and is expected to begin April 1, officials said.