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Council amends mural rules to add B-2 business district; public commenter objects to downtown "identity politics"
Summary
Madison's City Council amended its mural code on June 30 to allow murals in the B-2 community business district and to cap side or rear wall coverage at 75% unless the Mural Advisory Board approves more.
The Madison City Council on June 30 approved an amendment to Chapter 8, Section 4, Subsection 4 of the Madison City Code to update the city's mural regulations.
The ordinance amendment extends mural allowances into the B-2 community business district and sets a maximum of 75% facade coverage for side or rear walls unless additional coverage is approved by the Mural Advisory Board. Matt Davidson of the planning department said staff recommended approval, adding that applicants must make application and that murals will be reviewed by the advisory board before installation.
During public comment, Jacqueline Peters, who identified herself as a District 6 resident, expressed strong opposition to what she described as changes downtown related to LGBTQ+ visibility. "You have opened the door to Pandora's box of political identity," Peters said, asserting the downtown would be transformed and criticizing prior votes she referenced. The council closed the public comment period at the three-minute limit and then proceeded with planning business.
Council members approved the ordinance amendment on a recorded vote. Planning staff said the measure is intended to preserve building character by limiting mural coverage while allowing murals in the B-2 district under advisory-board review.
The change requires mural applicants to apply to the Mural Advisory Board; the board will review and may approve additional coverage beyond the 75% cap on side or rear walls.
