Council approves $4,850 from Robertson Brothers donation for Saint Paul Pocket Park improvements

Brighton City Council on April 22 approved use of $4,850 from a Robertson Brothers donation to complete improvements at the Saint Paul Pocket Park, including a sponsored sculpture, landscaping, a ribbon‑cutting event and a donor plaque.

Jeri Kay Thomas, representing the Brighton Arts and Culture Commission, described the project as a community‑led effort that will include benches, a mural (painted with broad community participation) and landscaping. "The art that we have in Brighton is one thing that makes us special and unique," Thomas said. The mural artist is expected to attend the ribbon cutting, and the commission has scheduled an opening for June 6.

Councilmember Gibson moved to allocate up to $4,850 from the Robertson Brothers donation as follows: $1,000 for sculpture sponsorship, $2,500 for landscaping between the retaining wall and the parking lot, $350 for the ribbon cutting and $1,000 to cover a plaque or other incidental costs. Councilmember Schmank seconded, and council approved the motion by voice vote.

Council and staff discussed bench and trash‑receptacle procurement and the possibility of the city covering additional costs if the donation is not used for a commercial‑grade trash receptacle. City staff said benches would be powder‑coated and the Downtown Development Authority will assist with plant watering and maintenance; staff confirmed the donation had been provided to the Brighton Arts and Culture Commission for community enhancements.

The pocket park improvements will proceed under the BACC's plan; staff will arrange final procurement and installation and return to council with any significant scope or funding changes.