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Torrance council approves Robert Vargas mural at DoubleTree, sets indemnification
Summary
The City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-16 to approve a large-scale mural by artist Robert Vargas on the south exterior wall of the DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance South Bay and approved an indemnification agreement that makes the hotel responsible for maintenance and vandalism protection.
The Torrance City Council unanimously approved Resolution 2026-16 on Feb. 10, 2026, authorizing a public-art mural by Robert Vargas on the south exterior wall of the DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance South Bay and approving an indemnification agreement that assigns maintenance responsibility to the hotel.
Staff from the Cultural Arts Commission and the Community Services director presented the application from Linda Amato on behalf of the DoubleTree, describing the proposed location at 21333 Hawthorne Boulevard and the Cultural Arts Commission’s review and recommendation under the city’s mural policy (Ordinance 3,941). Robert Vargas, the artist, described the design intent and the site’s visibility from Hawthorne and nearby public spaces.
“Of course Torrance has the largest population of Japanese in all of North America,” Vargas said while explaining his connection to the community and his intention to celebrate local baseball and cultural ties. Councilmembers asked who would approve final design adjustments and how the mural would be protected; staff said the Cultural Arts Commission had approved the rendering and that the DoubleTree would be responsible for maintenance and graffiti-resistance measures.
Councilmember Kalani, Councilmember Metucci and others spoke in support of the project, praising Vargas’ work and the potential to draw visitors. After brief comments and a public speaker in favor, Councilmember Gerson moved to adopt Resolution 2026-16 and to approve the indemnification agreement; the motion carried unanimously.
The council and staff noted the project’s unveiling will be timed with regional events; the artist referenced a late‑March unveiling linked to baseball opening-day coverage. Staff said the hotel will be responsible for upkeep and that the Cultural Arts Commission’s approval covers the submitted rendering; any substantial design changes would follow the city’s review procedures.
The council’s formal action: adoption of Resolution 2026‑16 and approval of an indemnification agreement, recorded as a unanimous vote.
