City highlights public-sculpture program and honors youth cleanup volunteers

The commission received a presentation from the Macomb Cultural and Economic Partnership on the second year of a sculpture program in South Mount Clemens and recognized student volunteers who helped clean streets this summer.

Presenter Ed Bruley described the program’s first year as successful, with eight sculptures displayed under host agreements and sponsorships paid by community donors. He said the program plans to expand in its second year and that, at an upcoming October event, most of the temporary sculptures will be removed except for two pieces that are expected to be purchased and permanently placed at other city locations.

Bruley also described a summer youth cleanup program involving about 13–15 students who worked roughly two-hour shifts (approximately 5–7 p.m.) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to pick up trash on Southbound Gratiot, South Main Street and Northbound Gratiot under adult supervision. The commission presented certificates of appreciation to several students who attended the meeting (Ariel, Zachary and Miles were named in the record).

Commissioners praised the work and encouraged continued support for the arts program and cleanup efforts. Several commissioners asked staff to consider outreach and to provide additional opportunities for community participation in upcoming events.

Next steps: the sculpture program will continue into its second year with further opportunities for sponsorship and hosting; commissioners asked the mayor to connect interested participants with program organizers.