Council approves $8,000 donation from EDF for public mural by Bob Palmer

The Wagoner City Council approved an $8,000 donation from the Economic Development Fund to support a public mural to be painted by artist Bob Palmer on city-leased property at 110 N. Smith.

Sally French presented the updated mural design and said the team reduced costs by housing the artists at her home during the three-day installation. French told the council the mural will depict local themes such as grain fields, cattle and historical references, and that the revised wraparound design required more surface area.

French said she had already contributed approximately $2,000 of her own funds toward the project and asked the council to consider contributing $6,000 to $8,000; the council ultimately approved an $8,000 allocation from the Economic Development Fund. Councilor Jimmy Butler made the motion, which passed on a roll call vote.

Council members asked French and the artist to provide a schedule for the work so staff could coordinate surface preparation and power washing. French said the artists are prepared to start as soon as weather permits, but staff noted forecasted rain and potential scheduling adjustments.

The artist was identified as Bob Palmer; French provided the council with a book showing Palmers prior work and said he has painted thousands of murals worldwide. Councilors indicated the donation was intended for economic-development and beautification purposes and asked staff to track the schedule and finish work.