The commission consists of 15 volunteers appointed by the mayor of San Diego, supported by a professional staff.
[1] The commission was established by city ordinance in 1988 as part of Mayor Maureen O'Connor's "Year of the Arts" proclamation.
[2] It serves in an advisory capacity to the mayor and the San Diego City Council on promoting, encouraging and increasing support for the arts and culture institutions of San Diego.
The commission believes that arts and cultural organizations and activities promote a better quality of life for local residents.
Such activities also play a major role in the tourism industry; 2.7 million visitors in 2007 made their travel decision based primarily on the city's cultural attractions.