Council approves up to $4,850 from Robertson Brothers donation for Saint Paul Pocket Park improvements and ribbon cutting

The Brighton Arts & Culture Commission briefed council on the Saint Paul Pocket Park on April 22 and requested use of a Robertson Brothers donation for finishing touches.

Jeri Kay Thomas and members of the Arts and Culture Commission described the mural project, community involvement in painting it, the planned ribbon cutting on June 6 and landscaping and bench plans for the pocket park site. The commission asked to reserve Robertson Brothers donation funds for final elements including a sculpture pad, benches, landscaping and a plaque.

Council approved a motion (moved by Gibson; seconded by Schmank) to use up to $4,850 of the Robertson Brothers donation as follows: $1,000 sponsorship for a new sculpture and artist, $2,500 for landscaping between the retaining wall and adjacent parking, $350 for a ribbon‑cutting event on June 6, 2025, and up to $1,000 to cover a plaque or minor overages. Council discussion clarified that DPW and the DDA will assist with moving pots and initial watering; staff said remaining implementation decisions (bench selection, trash receptacle sourcing and powder coating) could be handled in collaboration with staff so the project can meet the planned ribbon‑cutting date.

Council members asked that the bench and trash can procurement be coordinated to minimize using the specific donation where city funds could cover an appropriate receptacle or plaque if desired. The motion passed unanimously.

Background: the Robertson Brothers donation had been designated for community enhancements; the pocket park project includes a community‑painted mural and new landscaping; city staff and the DDA will assist with implementation and maintenance.