Council asks for options and cost menu on arts and culture master plan

The City of Buena Park discussed whether to develop an arts and culture master plan and asked staff to return with a menu of options and representative costs.

Mark Ciceida, community services supervisor, and Richard Stein of Arts Orange County described what an arts and culture master plan can do—establishing a 5‑ to 10‑year strategy, identifying public art locations, recommending funding mechanisms such as developer in‑lieu fees, and supporting local artists and cultural programming. Stein noted that Brea and Irvine used different approaches and funding models; recent plans cited in the presentation ranged from about $50,000 to $200,000 depending on scope and community engagement depth.

Council members generally supported pursuing public art and a guiding document, but several raised fiscal caution given the city's current budget cycle, labor negotiations, and pending revenue measures. Councilmember Sani asked for a “menu” that lists potential elements (e.g., an art‑in‑public‑places program, arts education supports, community surveys) and associated cost ranges so the council can make an informed budget decision.

Richard Stein said much community input is already available from the parks and recreation master‑plan process and that focusing narrowly on public art could reduce costs. Vice Mayor Trout and other members suggested sending options to the Cultural Engagement Commission for a deeper review and asked staff to provide links to sample plans for review.

No budget appropriation was made at the meeting; council asked staff and Arts Orange County to return with examples, likely cost bands, and a plan for next steps.