Commission approves DAR obelisk mosaic design for Oso Creek Trail

The Mission Viejo Community Services Commission voted 7–0 on Aug. 19 to approve a design for a mosaic obelisk proposed by the local Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) chapter for installation at the center of the hedge maze on the Oso Creek Trail.

DAR representatives Tracy Briers and artist Mary Anne Herrera presented four mosaic panels and explained the group’s plan to fund fabrication and installation through a local fundraiser and donations to reach an approximate fundraising target of $12,000. The project team said Joseph and Sons, a mosaic fabricator with prior work for the city, will digitize the selected watercolors and produce Venetian-glass mosaics that would be installed on a city-built foundation. “This is a great fit,” the city’s cultural staff said, noting the location had always been intended for an art piece. Assistant City Manager Jerry Hill and staff confirmed that, if the commission’s design approval stands, the item will be scheduled for city council review in September and construction would follow once contracts and funding are secured.

Commissioners asked about size and city cost responsibilities. Project presenters said the obelisk itself would likely be about 10 feet tall with a platform making the full installation somewhat larger; DAR said the chapter expects to cover the full cost of the mosaic art, plaque and artist fees while the city would prepare the foundation and site work. The commission asked staff to return cost estimates for council consideration. The vote to approve the design sends the proposal to council; staff will supply detailed cost estimates and a proposed schedule to the council for final authorization.