Public Art Commission elects chair and names Harriet Stern vice chair

The Palo Alto Public Art Commission elected its chair and selected Commissioner Harriet Stern as vice chair at its Jan. 15 meeting.

The commission opened nominations after staff reviewed election procedures. One commissioner nominated the incumbent chair; the nominee accepted, saying they were “thrilled to accept this nomination.” Commissioners closed nominations and used ballots (or a yay/nay vote when a single nominee is present) to confirm leadership. Harriet Stern was nominated for vice chair, accepted and was confirmed in a subsequent roll-call vote.

The staff member who explained the process told commissioners the chair is expected to present the annual work plan to city council and to spend modest monthly time preparing agendas in coordination with staff. The nominee for chair described the role as collaborative and noted regular monthly meetings, occasional council events and related outreach obligations.

Commissioners praised the nominees’ engagement and experience. One commissioner who seconded the chair nomination said the incumbent runs meetings efficiently and enjoys the role. After votes were tallied, commissioners congratulated the new leadership.

The commission closed the agenda item and proceeded to other business; the election was procedural and did not change any ongoing project approvals.