Downtown group seeks Aldo Leopold–themed mural for 400 block of Jefferson

Amy Moyer, executive director of Downtown Partners, told the council the design committee is recommending a mural for the 400 block of Jefferson Street as part of broader downtown placemaking and Main Street work.

"This wall has been staring at us. It's a blank slate. It needs something there," Moyer said, describing the roughly 750-square-foot retaining wall and the committee's goal of a subtle, nature-focused backdrop. She said the design intent emphasizes prairie grass and the conservation legacy of Aldo Leopold.

Elizabeth Papis, a member of the project's design committee, read the RFP language to the council and said the mural is meant to be "a subtle beautiful backdrop that enhances the downtown environment," not an interactive installation. Downtown Partners solicited interest from 27 artists, received 10 applications and narrowed that pool to three finalists: Erin Cartell, David Mama and Shane Mayahi.

Moyer outlined a schedule that calls for a final artist selection on July 15, wall preparation and installation over the summer, and a target completion during the Sept. 26 farmers market with a ribbon-cutting (a weather-related October contingency was noted).

Council members voiced support for the theme and the design committee's outreach. One council member noted the importance of consulting affected building and business owners once a final rendering is available; Moyer said block captains will help carry that outreach.

Downtown Partners also proposed adding themed benches to the block to provide seating and reinforce the Leopold tribute; Moyer said they are exploring an Eagle Scout project to help construct three to four benches. Funding and permit coordination for temporary parking closures during installation will be handled by Downtown Partners in coordination with the city.

The council did not take formal action during the work session; staff asked for a thumbs-up to proceed to contract award on the July 15 timeline.