Commission approves relocation of East Side mural to Canyon Inn Motel

The Beautification of Public Arts Commission approved a request to relocate a planned mural by local artist Lenny Weiss from the East Flagstaff Public Library to the Canyon Inn Motel at 501 South Milton Street.

Staff told commissioners that Weiss had been awarded a BIA grant in spring 2024 to paint at the East Flagstaff Public Library but that the library site is expected to undergo changes in the next two years. Staff said the artist has not begun painting at the library and sought a new location that would offer more longevity for the work.

Lonnie, a city staff member presenting the item, said the Canyon Inn Motel owner provided a written permission letter and agreed to clear weeds in the mural area before painting. Lonnie also described a redesigned mural composition that adapts original elements to the motel facade.

Commissioners asked for clarification about the library’s planned changes. Lonnie said Coconino Community College owns the library property and staff reported there could be changes in about two years, including removing a wall to create a door. Lonnie said that timeline was not firm but that the college was exploring redevelopment options.

A commissioner asked whether the location change would mean the mural no longer serves the East Side; other commissioners noted that when the library construction is complete another mural could be considered. Lonnie said the original library text and design elements would be preserved in the new mural design.

A motion to approve the location change passed on a voice vote. Staff said the artist planned to begin work immediately and thanked the commission for approval.