Greenwood mural request tabled while board seeks location and design details

Festival Country’s board discussed a $5,000 request from the City of Greenwood to fund product development for a new mural designed as a photo opportunity but tabled the item for more details on location and coordination with another group working on public art.

Staff described that the city’s proposed budget for production and installation is about $7,640; Festival Country’s grant committee recommended approval. The proposal includes vinyl prints on aluminum composite, QR-code signage and an interactive online map so visitors can locate murals along a walking and biking trail.

Board members raised site concerns: the initial building identified sits adjacent to a parking lot and dumpsters and may not function as a selfie/photo opportunity. One board member noted that another Greenwood organization might be pursuing a similar mural and recommended that both applicants coordinate to avoid duplication. Several members suggested inviting the Greenwood applicant to the next meeting to answer location and longevity questions.

The board agreed to pause action and invited the applicant (Alyssa, identified as the city contact) to appear at a subsequent meeting to present clearer location options and address overlap with other proposed projects. Staff will follow up and ask the city to provide a finalized site, imagery and maintenance plan before the board votes.

Board members noted that downtown art trails previously spurred visitation in other towns, and several expressed support for murals in principle once location and public-accessibility concerns are resolved.