Oldsmar creates Public Art Advisory Board and updates city donation policy

The Oldsmar City Council on Feb. 18 approved the formation of a Public Art Advisory Board and adopted a revised city donation policy that applies to art and other gifts.

Joan Byrne, who presented the public art plan, told council the new advisory board will advise the council on public-art matters, advocate for implementation of the recently adopted public art master plan and be composed of seven members and two alternates. Byrne said four members should have art-related occupations (for example, a professional artist, museum curator, art teacher or urban planner) and three must be Oldsmar residents with interest or experience in art.

Byrne said applicants will apply through the city website and that the board will serve without compensation. Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-04 to establish the board.

Council also adopted Resolution 2025-06 revising the city’s donation policy across cash and noncash gifts. Byrne explained the policy standardizes a transparent review process, requires donors to submit an application, directs review committees to inspect noncash gifts for merit and durability, and requires a separate donation agreement when a gift’s value exceeds $25,000. She said the policy addresses whether donations are accompanied by restrictions on future use and whether the city has space to display or store a donated item.

Staff said the policy applies to gifts to the city generally, including the historical museum and library, and that departments will participate in review committees when appropriate. Council voted to adopt both resolutions by voice vote.