Public Arts Commission readies Festival of the Arts, discontinues library exhibits and forms Perez Art District subcommittee

Staff and commissioners used the March 10 meeting to finalize logistics for the upcoming Festival of the Arts, make a policy decision about the quarterly library exhibits and create a small subcommittee to pursue Perez Art District events and possible spend plans.

Staff reported that the festival call for artists produced 40 applicants (35 requested city tents, five said they would bring their own). The city has 32 tents on hand, has purchased additional tents and is working to fill drops and finalize placements. Staff described tent-size variability, the lack of standard three-sided display walls and the need for artists to bring their own display boards in many cases. The schedule and volunteer check-in plan were discussed, and staff said they will provide an online artist list and a day-of map for attendees.

"We had received 40 applicants," staff member Anne said, adding that the team is verifying payments, insurance and assigning locations by application priority.

Commissioners discussed outreach, artist support and how to use remaining commission funds. The commission has a small FY25–26 allocation (the Public Arts Commission has a $10,000 annual discretionary allotment); $5,000 has been committed to the Festival of the Arts, leaving approximately $5,000 to spend before the fiscal year ends June 30. Commissioners agreed that a mural for the Perez Art District would likely exceed that remaining balance and that a larger Art-in-Public-Places fund would be a better source for permanent installations.

During the same meeting, the commission debated the quarterly library exhibits, noting uneven attendance at recent installments and the staff time required to support the program. Chair Lee Belt moved to discontinue the quarterly exhibit series as currently structured so the commission can focus resources on larger events; the motion was seconded and carried (vote: all ayes). The commission recorded no public objections on the record.

The commission then voted to form a two-person subcommittee to work with the Perez Art District to explore event formats, timing and modest seed funding options; Chair Lee Belt and Commissioner Marks were named to that subcommittee. The subcommittee will meet with Perez Art District representatives and return recommended options, and any proposed spending would come back to the full commission for approval and, where required, City Council action.

No ordinance or formal contract awards were made at the meeting. Staff also noted county arts-month promotions and interdepartmental outreach opportunities that could amplify festival marketing and artist visibility.

The meeting concluded after commissioners’ reports and adjournment.