Leesburg commission weighs prize rules for environmental art contest

Members of the Arts & Environment Commission discussed the rules, logistics and prize options for an upcoming environmental art contest.

Commissioners clarified that town policy limits prizes that could be perceived as gifts to commissioners or staff: gift cards and direct cash prizes are problematic under the town’s gifts and gratuities policy, though a physical trophy or town‑purchased non‑cash prize would be allowable. Multiple commissioners suggested offering non‑monetary awards — such as plants, compost bins, classes, or an experience (for example, lunch with a town official) — and discussed whether the commission could partner with a local Creative Reuse Center to run or host the contest and provide materials or display space.

Logistics dominated the conversation: town hall and the county library have limited display availability, so members suggested displaying entries across downtown shops, the Loudoun Museum upstairs event space, or at the Flower & Garden Show. Commissioners also discussed timing (late May/early June or after the Flower & Garden Show), submission limits and size constraints, and ways to involve schools, senior centers and summer camps. Staff agreed to contact the Creative Reuse Center and return with a draft event plan and prize approach for a future meeting.