Commission explores murals, hydrant art and Cal Poly partnerships as local makerspace closes

Blue Lake — Members of the Arts and Heritage Commission reviewed options for public-art projects, including murals, sculptures and the ongoing fire-hydrant painting initiative, while noting the imminent closure of the local makerspace.

Commissioners said artists need clear compensation proposals before commissioning murals, citing typical rates discussed in other towns (examples cited during the meeting: roughly $10 per square foot and a $2,000 payment for a mid-size mural). Potential sites discussed included the Del Arte south wall, a post-office retaining wall (the owner was identified as Melissa Costa for follow-up) and a proposed roundabout location for sculpture placement.

Because local funds are limited, commissioners proposed pursuing partnerships with Cal Poly’s service-learning programs so students could develop designs as class projects; the commission also discussed newspaper outreach and donation requests if paid commissions become necessary. On the fire-hydrant project, staff reported a streamlined application and approval process so participants collect paint from Public Works (Glenn) after approval.

Separately, the commission learned the Blue Lake makerspace will close as the operator shifts focus to a larger McKinleyville site; commissioners urged community volunteers and collaboration with other organizations to revive similar services in future.

Next steps: commissioners will check building ownership for potential mural sites, confirm whether Del Arte wall availability remains, contact Cal Poly art faculty about service-learning collaboration, and revisit progress in December.