Miramar updates land‑development code to broaden mural art rules

The Miramar City Commission on April 16 approved on first reading an ordinance amending the city’s Land Development Code to create a more inclusive framework for mural art.

The ordinance updates definitions and processing standards in Section 3.24 (Public Art) to allow mechanically produced or computer‑assisted techniques — including digital printing, projection, stencils and screen printing — in addition to hand‑painted murals. The amendment also revises artist‑selection criteria to expand opportunities for emerging artists who may not yet meet traditional exhibition‑based qualifications.

Senior Landscape Planner Sue Ling Rosario of the Building, Planning and Zoning Department presented the proposal, explaining that the current code’s definition of public art had implicitly excluded mechanically produced images. Rosario showed examples of mechanically produced murals from nearby cities and noted that the changes could allow Miramar to participate in art‑and‑light initiatives and larger public art projects.

No members of the public spoke on the item. The commission moved to approve the ordinance on first reading; the recorded vote was unanimous with Commissioner Chambers, Commissioner Sherazard, Vice Mayor Colburn, Commissioner Edwards and Mayor Wayne Messam voting yes.

The ordinance language as presented includes standards for processing murals on private commercial property and updates permitting and review procedures. City staff recommended approval and said the amendment is intended to expand creative techniques while establishing clear guidelines for installation and review.