Huber Heights arts commission approves $11,000 2026 budget; plans May art show and Bradford Pear outreach

The Huber Heights Arts & Beautification Commission on an evening meeting approved a proposed $11,000 budget for 2026 that allocates $5,000 for next year’s art show, $5,000 for citizen-advocacy work (including a campaign related to Bradford pear tree removal) and $500 for yard-beautification awards.

The budget was moved and seconded during the commission’s meeting and approved by voice vote; the chair announced the motion carried. The commission discussed how the funds could be used for marketing, T-shirts, event programming and small supplies.

Commission members reported the public-art contract has been signed and returned to the artist/firm; the committee must still select a final installation site. The commission said it has a firm “no” from the local athletics organization to host the piece and that the side of a shopping center facing the city hall site is not available. Members said the mural or painted piece can be sized to fit available walls; they discussed approximate dimensions ranging from roughly 8-by-12 feet up to about 12 feet tall or 16–24 feet wide depending on the location.

The committee also discussed an arts show to be held in May 2026 and agreed tentatively on May 2, pending a quick check of school calendars and other conflicts. Members said they prefer a date while local schools remain in session to encourage student participation. Commissioners discussed hiring a musician and other programming needs for the show; one member recommended budgeting $4,000–5,000 to allow for a larger event if desired.

The commission also discussed a citizen-advocacy line item of $5,000 that members proposed using for outreach around the Bradford pear tree removals. Suggestions included partnering with a credit union to host an after-hours community event, providing tree saplings or T-shirts, and using funds for marketing and volunteers.

The commission approved the budget by voice vote after a motion to present an $11,000 budget request to council; the chair said she will include the commission’s request when she speaks to council the next day. Members reiterated that some items—such as T-shirts and supplies—might reduce future budget needs once materials are available.