Survey and petition prompt committee to seek quotes, coordinate with Masons on covering or replacing Main Street mural

Public comment and a citizen petition asking the village to cover or remove a mural on the Main Street building (address recorded in meeting materials as 10534/10536 Main Street) prompted committee discussion and a directive for staff to obtain contractor quotes and coordinate with the property owner.

Resident Jerry Brock presented a petition signed by 32 Winnebago County residents asking the village to cover the mural on the building at 10536 Main Street. The petition and a village-run online survey generated discussion among trustees about whether public funds should be used. Staff summarized survey results presented in the packet: the survey responses included a range of opinions, with respondents split among support for a village-funded removal, support for private funding only, and neutrality; staff emphasized the sample size was small (packet showed 45 responses) and noted distribution limitations.

Trustees emphasized the distinction between private property rights and village expenditures. Staff outlined options: (1) the village could contribute funds toward removal or replacement if the property owner consents and legal/hold-harmless/indemnification language is in place; (2) private fundraising by residents and groups could be used to commission a new mural; or (3) the village could seek contractor quotes for painting over the existing mural and seek an agreement with the building owner for work to be performed and liability to be addressed.

Committee members directed staff to obtain quotes for covering the mural (staff suggested simple paint-over estimates and options for more durable removal/replacement techniques), to meet with the property owner (identified in the packet materials as a Masonic organization/owner) about permissions and to return with cost estimates and a recommended path forward. Trustees emphasized they preferred private funding but recognized a petition and resident interest might justify village assistance if legal protections and property-owner permission are obtained.

Why it matters: The mural is located in the village’s downtown/Main Street sightlines and has become a focal point for public sentiment and civic identity; trustee actions balance resident preferences, private property rights and use of village funds.

What’s next: Staff will solicit contractor quotes for a paint-over and for alternatives, will consult with the building owner (Masons) and will return to committee with cost estimates and a recommended approach; trustees suggested fundraising and private contributions as the preferred route if residents want replacement artwork.