Public debate centers on proposed City Square “Dome of Unity” as staff outline selection process and community workshops

Supporters and opponents of a proposed City Square sculpture called the Dome of Unity spoke at the City of Joliet pre-council meeting on Sept. 15, 2025, as staff reviewed the project timeline and the Arts Commission’s selection process. The sculpture by Sija Chen Studio appears on the council agenda as Council Memo 4-98-25 with a contract amount not to exceed $197,000; the pre-council discussion did not include a formal council vote on the contract.

The Arts Commission’s chair, Tom Gratowski, told the council the selection followed a multi-step process that included an open call, a public voting round and interviews of finalists. Gratowski said more than 3,000 people participated in the public narrowing of finalists and the commission later recommended the Dome of Unity because of its design, durability and planned community engagement.

“The selection unfolded in two important stages,” Gratowski said, adding the commission considered maintenance, materials, and public input when recommending the…