The same week that saw Dallas city manager Mary Suhm propose a 17 percent reduction in arts support for the next fiscal year now hears from the other side of the Metroplex: To help close a $73 million shortfall, the $1.3 billion budget for Fort Worth, proposed by city manager Dale Fisseler, includes a reduction in arts funding to $700,000. It also proposes closing three branch libraries.

The Star-Telegram story that reported this was a little skimpy on details (reduce to $700,000 from what?). The data came straight from the city’s own 2011 budget breakout. But then, you’re welcome to try to quarry the relevant comparison from the city’s 2010 budget. I gave up.

And FTW library supporters are already gearing up to oppose the branch closings.