The San Francisco City Commission convened on October 6, 2025, to discuss the Valancourt Fountain, a significant piece of public art located in Embarcadero Plaza. The meeting was primarily informational, allowing for public commentary and providing an overview of the fountain's history and recent developments.

The session began with Lisonbee Cummings, the senior registrar for the Civic Art Collection, who presented a historical overview of the Valancourt Fountain. Cummings highlighted that the fountain, also known as Quebec Libre, was commissioned as part of the Golden Gateway redevelopment project in the 1960s. This project transformed the downtown area into a mixed-use district featuring modern architecture and public art.

Cummings detailed the fountain's design competition, which attracted submissions from five international artists, ultimately selecting Armand Valancourt's design. The fountain was praised for its integration of water, light, and movement, creating an interactive environment for the public. Construction began in 1969, and the fountain was completed in 1971 at a cost of $310,000, funded by both federal and city resources.

The presentation also addressed the mixed public reception of the fountain over the years. While some critics, including artist Ruth Asawa and architecture critic Alan Temko, expressed sharp criticism, others defended its design, noting its artistic significance. The fountain has been described as "controversial," reflecting ongoing debates about its aesthetic and functional role in the plaza.

Johanna Goodwin, the Recreation and Parks project manager, followed Cummings' presentation, discussing recent reports and actions taken by the city regarding the fountain. The meeting included over 250 public comments submitted in advance, indicating significant community interest in the fountain's status and future.

The session concluded with a reminder that the discussions were informational, with no immediate decisions or actions planned. The commission encouraged continued public engagement and feedback regarding the Valancourt Fountain as part of the broader Embarcadero Plaza renovation project.