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Oviedo CRA approves call for fauna-or-flora sculpture after debate over native plants
Summary
The City of Oviedo Community Redevelopment Agency governing board on Oct. 20 approved a call to artists for a sculpture themed on Oviedo’s fauna or flora to be located on the east side of Oviedo Boulevard at Center Lake Lane, after members questioned whether the site should instead feature native-plant landscaping and reviewed the project budget.
The City of Oviedo Community Redevelopment Agency governing board voted Oct. 20 to approve funding for a call to artists for a sculpture representing the fauna or flora of Oviedo to be placed on the east side of Oviedo Boulevard at the intersection with Center Lake Lane.
The item, presented as Resolution No. 168-25, prompted extended discussion about whether the narrow planting strip planned for the sculpture should instead—or additionally—feature native Florida plants. Board members referenced an email from a correspondent, identified in the record as Mr. Ford, arguing that placing a sculpture amid non-native landscaping could be ironic and that the city should prioritize living native-plant displays.
Teresa, the CRA presenter, clarified the scope of the call: "This call to artist is for fauna and or flora. So this could be a sculpture of a deer. And if you'll look at the photo of the space, it's a very narrow sliver of land, actually." She also explained the project budget: "You're correct. Yeah. 25 is the stipend for the artist with the execution of the sculpture. And then we have installation up to 5,000, lighting up to 3,000, and the plaque up to 2,000," for a total budget up to $35,000.
Several board members said they agreed with the point that the site’s existing landscaping—behind a knee wall—was not ideal for a native-plant exhibit. Member Tugger said the sculpture could still work if the surrounding planting were adjusted: "I think if we're gonna be doing native plants I do think there's a way to still do this, with native plants. So maybe it's a revisit it and see how we can put this in the right place or surround it by native plants and make it work." Mr. Bridal and others echoed the suggestion to consider alternatives or adjustments.
City staff responded that landscaping could be altered as part of the project. "If the objection is to the landscaping, the landscape can be replaced," said Mr. Cobb, who noted that a landscape plan could be included with the sculpture design or later work. Board members discussed whether to reduce the artist stipend to reserve funds for replanting; some said they preferred to approve the art call now and address landscaping after proposals are received.
Teresa outlined the anticipated procurement timeline if the board approved the item and council confirmed it: the city would advertise the call for 60 days and return the proposals to the board at a later meeting, likely at the end of the year or early the following year.
After discussion, a motion to support Resolution No. 168-25 carried by voice vote. The transcript records "Aye" and "None opposed. Motion passes," and notes the board may revisit landscaping or budget allocations when proposals are returned.
The resolution authorizes the CRA to solicit sculpture designs, with a proposed budget that includes a $25,000 artist stipend and up to $10,000 for installation, lighting and a plaque. The board did not adopt a formal amendment to change the stipend amount during the meeting.
