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Board tables decision on senior‑center security gate pending Zia Pueblo permission; agrees to 90‑day waiting period
Summary
The board paused final action on a proposed Los Alamos Heritage Gate by Jonathan Watson because the design originally included the Zia symbol; members agreed to wait up to 90 days for a response from the Zia Pueblo before either proceeding with an alternative sun motif or reopening public input.
The Art and Public Places Board tabled a final procurement decision on a proposed security gate for the Senior Center after staff reported the artist had submitted a design incorporating the Zia symbol and the board has requested written permission from the Zia Pueblo.
Jasmine (staff liaison) said the artist, Jonathan Watson, had submitted the required forms but had not yet received a response. Pacific Coast (conservation/contract consultant) advised that the gate’s powder‑coat finish will require UV protective coatings and ongoing maintenance in the local climate; staff flagged finish, maintenance and long‑term recoating needs as technical considerations.
Board members discussed whether proceeding with a redesigned gate (a sun motif rather than the Zia symbol) would change the public support that emerged from earlier polling, which showed roughly 75% favoring the gate design shown to the public. Councilor Neil Clinton suggested a 90‑day limit on waiting for the Pueblo’s response; the board agreed to table the item while staff seeks clarification and to return with an update. Members noted that if the Pueblo denied permission, the board should plan to re‑engage the public because the advertised design would have changed.
The board did not approve procurement and left the item open pending the artist’s permission timeline and further technical input from Pacific Coast.
