Waukesha panel approves draft RFP to fund three Freeman Alley murals

The Waukesha City Arts Commission approved a draft request for proposals for three murals on Freeman Alley and asked staff to add clearer specifications for materials and installation before the RFP is released.

Robin, staff member, presented the draft RFP and said the commission is seeking proposals for three of seven planned Freeman Alley murals as a starter project. Robin said the draft lists sizes and locations for the three pieces and that “I put August 1 as a tentative date” for proposal submission. Funding for the work is being organized through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds referenced for 2025 and extended into 2026.

Commissioners said they supported beginning with three murals but pressed for more specific material and installation guidance. A consultant had recommended 3-millimeter composite panels; commissioners and other participants raised concerns about durability and mounting on historic brick facades. One member suggested specifying a minimum exterior-grade resin base and providing links or examples where applicants could purchase acceptable panels. Commissioners also asked that applicants describe their installation method and note property-owner approval and any mounting standards they would follow.

The commission discussed whether panels would be painted in studios and later mounted, or painted on site, and whether a permanently mounted backing board should be professionally affixed so panels could be swapped without drilling into historic masonry. Commissioners also cautioned against assuming all applicants have experience with outdoor murals and asked for examples of previously completed, installed outdoor work to be required in proposals.

Mixed-media or sculptural proposals were discussed as possibilities, but commissioners noted practical limits for longevity and safety for some materials and said the RFP should allow creative approaches while flagging potential durability or maintenance issues. Staff said they would add language clarifying acceptable materials, minimum technical requirements for exterior use, and examples of acceptable mounting approaches, and would consult city landmarks staff and contractors on masonry-appropriate installation practices.

A motion to accept the draft RFP with the changes discussed carried by voice vote. The commission also asked staff to compile proposals for review at a future meeting (August or September, depending on timetable).

Ending: Staff said they will revise the RFP to include minimum material standards (for example, an exterior resin-base panel, minimum 3 mm), installation descriptions, property-owner consent requirements and examples of prior installed projects, then circulate the revised draft by email for commission review.