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Commission hears update on Onigawara refurbishment, green-lights next steps pending Council approval
Summary
Commissioners received an update that the restored Onigawara is stored at Temple Art Lofts and Public Works has inspected it; commissioners urged moving forward with site selection and planting trees this winter but noted that the Council must approve any planting and budget commitments.
Commissioners received an update Oct. 20 on the long-delayed Japanese Garden refurbishment and placement of an Onigawara sculpture.
Rick Wyrick of the Beautification Commission told members the restored Onigawara is currently stored and cordoned in the Temple Art Lofts and that Public Works staff who inspected the piece indicated the installation is feasible. "This refurbishment... has been now we've been on this project now since September '23," Wyrick said, describing storage, inspection and the need to confirm a permanent outdoor site.
Commissioners discussed the next administrative steps: Public Works must finalize a site plan and cost estimate for a plinth or platform, the commission should prepare a package for the City Council, and the association or other partners may need to cover tree-purchase costs if the Council does not budget them. Public Works staff indicated they could dig the holes and plant trees if the council authorizes the work; commissioners emphasized planting before winter to improve tree survival.
Several commissioners recommended preparing a formal report for the city manager and council, including a budget and storage/liability plan for the piece while it remains in private storage. Commissioner comments also flagged potential timing constraints: purchasing nursery stock before Council approval risks spending funds before the council acts, so commissioners said they preferred completing the Council approval first or holding a special meeting to secure approvals in time for winter planting.
The commission agreed to draft a report for the city manager that would seek Council approval for site, planting and funding details and to consider a special meeting before winter to finalize decisions. Public Works and association staff were identified as follow-up contacts to produce cost estimates and storage/insurance clarifications.
