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Hope Mills board approves electrical-box mural project to beautify town
Summary
The Hope Mills Appearance Commission received board approval to paint murals on electrical boxes across town after proposing a pilot program; commissioners discussed funding, artist quotes, and plans to engage schools and businesses in the project.
Marie Calendarer, co-chair of the Hope Mills Appearance Commission, and member Evelyn Barnes presented an "EBOX" electrical-box mural initiative to the board on Aug. 11, asking for the board’s approval to move forward with murals to improve the town’s visual character.
Calendarer said the idea began with a single eyesore box at the lake and that similar projects in other towns inspired the initiative. She said organizers have an artist on board and were collecting estimates; she cited a starting quote of $550 per panel, though sizes and prices will vary by box. The commission said funding would come from its current-year budget, grant applications and potential private support through the chamber of commerce.
Board members supported the initiative and asked practical questions — where boxes are located, potential school collaborations and budget sources — before making a motion to approve the commission moving forward. The board voted to allow the Appearance Commission to proceed; the motion passed by voice vote.
Why it matters: Commissioners said the murals are a relatively low-cost way to brighten public spaces, involve local artists, and provide an outlet for civic pride without major capital outlay.
Provenance: Presentation and photos were shown (topicintro: SEG 702–SEG 712) and the motion was made and approved (topfinish: SEG 843–SEG 862).
