Klamath County commissioners reallocate public-art funds for local bronze installation

Klamath County commissioners voted on Feb. 4 to reallocate previously committed public-art funding to support a new bronze work by a local sculptor, following a presentation from community advocates.

Bob Cuza, speaking for an informal group he identified as Team Savita, told the board the county had earlier affirmed two $25,000 commitments on Sept. 2, 2025 and asked the county to keep that money “in play” for new pieces after tribes raised concerns about a prior proposal. Cuza said a 6-foot bronze piece would cost approximately $65,000 and an 8-foot piece about $100,000 and proposed using one $25,000 commitment toward a 6-foot owl for the Oregon Institute of Technology campus and matching city funds for a downtown installation.

The board discussed the proposal briefly. A commissioner moved to reappropriate the money allocated for the earlier statue toward an Oregon Tech piece and a separate downtown wildlife project. Another commissioner amended that motion to reappropriate $25,000 toward the Oregon Tech owl now and to hold the second $25,000 until a second project is identified and presented to the board. Chair Commissioner Minty called the question; the board signified approval by voice and the chair stated the motion passed.

Cuza said the sculptor could place an elk and the owl plates downtown if the county and city act quickly and offered to coordinate site readiness and a studio visit. The group also offered examples of smaller display pieces already in the community and said fundraising had supported earlier installations.

The county did not specify an exact installation date. Commissioners and presenters discussed meeting with the city manager and mayor to confirm sites and timeline; staff was asked to help coordinate the next steps.

The motion was limited to reappropriating existing local public-art funds; no additional county allocation was approved at the meeting.