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Council approves commissioning of life-size bronze elk at Baldwin Park with private funding and city contribution
Summary
The council authorized a contract framework with artist Stephen Savitas (Team Savitas) to commission and install a life-size bronze elk sculpture at Baldwin Park; the sculpture is reported as already created, funded primarily by private sources with the city covering about one-quarter of the cost and authorizing staff to finalize documents.
Klamath Falls, Ore. — The Klamath Falls City Council on Aug. 4 approved an agreement framework to commission and install a life-size bronze elk sculpture at Baldwin Park and authorized the city manager and city attorney to finalize required documents.
City Manager Jonathan Tigard said the proposed agreement with Team Savitas follows the city’s prior public-art agreements and that the sculpture is already created and ready for final revisions. "What I'm bringing before you this evening is an agreement that we a draft agreement between the city and team Savitas for the commissioning and sell the bronze sculpture," Tigard said. He described the piece as life-size and modeled on the city’s prior public-art processes.
Funding: Councilor Mueller described the city’s share as roughly one-quarter of the total cost and supported the arrangement because most funding is privately raised. "We're putting up a small portion, one fourth of the cost, which is honestly a bargain," Mueller said. Council discussion noted private donors leading the financing and emphasized the works’ durability in local weather conditions.
Why it matters: Supporters said the public-art installations have attracted attention from residents and visitors and help tell local stories about the basin. Councilor Russo noted community interest in art tours among local seniors and said the pieces prompt residents to engage with local history and tourism narratives.
Outcome: Council moved to authorize commissioning of the elk at Baldwin Park and allowed the city manager and city attorney to finalize required documents; the motion carried.
Next steps: Staff will finalize the agreement, confirm installation logistics and schedule placement at Baldwin Park. The city will complete required documentation with the artist and proceed with installation when contracts are executed.
