Planning commission approves large mural at Douglas County Community Arts Center

The Douglas County Planning Commission unanimously approved special-use permit 2026DPSUP003 to allow a large exterior mural on the Carson Valley Community Arts Center at 1760 North Highway 395 in Minden.

Brooke Gady, the county's community services director, told the commission the project is funded through a grant arranged by Visit Carson City and the state tourism commission. "The total budget for this mural is $68,000, but it costs 0 to the county," she said, adding that the work will be produced by internationally known muralist Rafael Blanco and filmed for the second episode of a PBS series called the Walls Project. Gady said the artist will be in town about two weeks and the paint includes a UV-protectant finish that staff do not expect will require ongoing maintenance.

Commissioners asked practical questions about design details and logistics — whether window-like features are actually stucco surfaces, whether the painted pillars (columns) should be included, and how future roof repairs would be coordinated with the artist. Gady said the artist advised against painting the green roof and indicated he would likely be available for consultation during any future maintenance. Several commissioners said they personally preferred painting the pillars to "ground" the image, though staff noted Town of Minden's recommendation that columns not be painted is framed as a recommendation rather than a binding condition.

After discussion, Vice Chair moved to approve the special-use permit subject to the conditions in the staff report; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. The mural project will proceed under the conditions listed in the staff report, and staff said they will coordinate remaining logistics with the artist and the Town of Minden.