Welcome to the regular meeting of the public art review board uh July 15,
2026. The time is 608. Uh Becky, can you please call?
» All right. Um acting chair Merrick. >> Oh, here. [laughter]
» Member Sandival >> here. Member Schoffler
» here. >> Member Skinner.
» Yes. >> All right. And then member Xiao we know
will be absent this evening. Thank you.
» Okay. So, I'm calling [clears throat] I guess our first agenda item approving
the regular meeting minutes from January 14th.
Uh at this time, we invite questions and answers from committee members to staff.
Okay. So, I'll call for a motion and then a second to approve the minutes.
» So, moved. >> Second.
» Becky, can you please call the role? >> Yeah. Was the second uh member Skinner?
» Yeah. >> Okay. Thank you.
» All right. Um, acting chair Merritt,
» uh, yay. >> Member Sandival,
» yes. >> Member Schoffler,
» yes. >> And member Skinner,
» yes. >> Right. Motion approved. Thank you.
» Thank you. >> At this time, I'd like to open public
comment for any in-person participants on any matters not listed on the agenda
that pertain to the public art review board.
» I'll just add a quick comment. It's great to see so many people here
tonight. Thank you all for being here, taking time out of your evening. My name
is Craig Baray. I work for the city. I'm the assistant library rec director. Uh I
also wear the hat of being the um city staff leazison for the public art review
board, which is why you're all here. And I'll just encourage everyone since
there's a lot of people in the room, we limit public comment to two minutes per
person. And if if someone already said something that you agree with, one of
the ways we really like to acknowledge that is to use the ASL applause. Like
you can put your hands up and um just acknowledge that you're in agreement. Um
but we also want to just remind everyone to be respectful and um share opinions
in a respectful way. With that, that's open for anyone.
» Who wants to go first? >> I'll go first.
» Okay. >> Yeah. We don't have a dis here. So,
» all right. >> Well, I read this part here. It says,
"Be respectful." So, I won't tell you what I really think about this project,
but it's not art. Emperor has no clothes. These are cartoons. Dunesbury
has a message. Do you cut out the Dunesbury cartoon and frame it and put
it in your living room? We have to have these just because somebody wants them.
Somebody wants to say, "We got heard, so therefore we got this." Most of us that
live there don't want it. If you read these, you're going to read them once.
You're not going to read them again and again, and it's not even it's the same
people going by over and over. These even don't even go on the path over to
Target. So anyway, uh I hope you don't approve it. This is the art review
boards and you're looking at cartoons, keep that in mind. Thank you.
» Excuse me. >> We had a question.
» Dad Labar. >> Dad Labar. Lamar B.
» Yeah. L A capital B A R R E. >> Yeah. And just since we don't typically
get a lot of public comment, I think that's a a really great point. If you
want to share your name, the neighborhood you live in, that's always
helpful for us. If you also have any written correspondence that you want to
share and leave with me, we can add that to the project record. We do have a
project file for you. >> Thank you.
» And also, can I just get a show? Um, how many of you are here to speak about the
people of the canal project tonight? Just to clarify that, um, if you're
speaking about that people of the canal project, that is not an item that's on
the agenda. And since it's not an item that's on the agenda, I just want to
clarify that. Um, to date, the public art review board has not received a
proposal. So, they are they have not had any information in front of them to
review at this point in time. So just to clarify that um to make sure that
everyone's on the same page. Um so if you are speaking about that project
again not on the agenda it's not something that we'll we to discuss at
length this evening in in alignment with our brown act rules.
» Right. I'll speak next. >> Hello everyone. My name is Susan Lavine.
I live in Bayoint. >> Speak up a little bit.
» And I'm a member of which stands for Marin Alliance to Retain Stark weather
habitat. I want to begin by recognizing that the peoples of the canal project is
unlike anything your board has approved before. In the past, the board has
approved murals on buildings, artwork on utility boxes, and temporary exhibits
inside places like Fallerk Cultural Center. Those projects may be very
different artistically, but they have something important in common. They are
located in developed settings. They're relatively easy to maintain or replace,
and they can be removed without permanently changing the character of
the place. This proposal is different. It would permanently install a two-mile
largecale exhibit throughout one of San Rafll's most treasured shoreline parks.
These signs wouldn't simply occupy the space, they would become part of the
landscape for decades. And that's especially significant because on the
shoreline path, the view is the art. People come to experience the marsh, the
bay, the wildlife, and the sweeping views. The shoreline itself is the
destination, not a backdrop for a permanent outdoor exhibit. That's why
your responsibility isn't simply to decide whether this is a worthwhile
project. It's to decide whether it's the right project for this location. Your
review criteria asks whether this site is appropriate, whether the project is
compatible with its surroundings, and whether it enhances the public space in
which it will be placed. I don't think anyone disputes that these stories
deserve to be told. They absolutely do. The real question is whether the
shoreline park is the right place to tell them. And if the current design
can't work anywhere else, then perhaps the design should evolve so it can.
Great public art doesn't ask a special place to change to accommodate the art.
It succeeds because it respects and complements the place where it's
installed. Thank you.
» Yeah. Mark fellows. I'm a Scottish but I actually live in Sper Point. So before I
get to the next question and I'm going to speak fast. I apologize because I
thought we had three minutes. I want to get I want to bring perspective from my
own work in public art in New York City with NGO Artbridge. Last month I helped
launch a community art project called speaking body in Brooklyn's 34 district
that tells the stories of immigrant mothers living in the city's shelter
system. We didn't ask where the story whether the story deserved to be have a
home and clearly did. We asked where the audience was time and attention to
consume the art. That's the lens I'm bringing to tonight. So this exhibit has
real educational in my view educational and artistic value. Nobody here is
arguing otherwise in front of this board tonight isn't the question isn't whether
the panels are good art or not. It's whether the shoreline path is the right
environment to deliver that art. So throughout the process the question
seems to have been framed around whether the installation fits the shoreline path
largely because that's where it was first conceived. I believe correct me if
I'm wrong. Um [clears throat] I'd suggest it's the wrong question. The
question is whether it's the site can deliver what a permanent 22 panel
exhibit actually needs an audience that stops, reads, and returns. Picklewood
Park sits at the canal neighborhood itself with parking, restrooms, shade,
and room for people to gather. This audience this project is meant to serve.
The shoreline path is a linear two-mile recreational trail. People walk, run,
bike, fish, bird watch there. never built to hold a museum's worth of text
and moving um art through um I'm gonna move on quickly. M so matching the
project to the right side isn't a downgrade. It's the ordinary work of
producing public art responsibly. My art bridge project succeeded because we
match the work to where the audience already was, not because we found a way
to force it somewhere else. So the board can live by the same standard here not
by judging whether the art is good um or not but by asking whether this stretch
of shoreline is a place to receive it. The current proposal can't be met by the
board's if a current proposal can't be met by the board standards for this
location. The answer isn't to compromise the shoreline is to give this project a
site where it can actually succeed.
» Okay, I'll go next. Uh my name is Claire Taylor uh also of Spanaker Point and
this evening I'd like to talk about um the perspective of planning that went
into uh the the uh canal art project and there are two con significant points
that haven't been considered in the placement of where the panel should be
along the weather path. And the first is that the city part of the city's general
plan as a part of the sea level rise adaptation plan is the likely potential
for the refabrication or the removal of the burm to accommodate the new
infrastructure that will be constructed to protect against inevitable sea level
rise. We all know that this is happening.
Secondly, that if the proposed park lighting goes through, um the city will
have to dig up the same pathway where the signs would sit to install lighting.
And this of course would seriously interfere with or delay any installation
that is placed along the path and may necessitate its removal to complete an
electrical infrastructure project. The only way to guarantee that the art
remains intact and untouched is to place it elsewhere. For example, at Pickle
Pickle Community Center where it will be preserved and protected for all to
enjoy. Long-term projects need to be planned in conjunction with each other.
Um, if the art project is considered an asset to the community, it should be
placed where it can be most appreciated by everyone. Thank you.
I'll go next since I'm going to kind of speak a little bit to what Claire just
said. My name is Flores. I'm a resident also of Senkar Point. The history of the
Canal neighborhood is rich, important, and absolutely deserves to be shared.
But tonight, the issue isn't the history that we're talking about. It's the
location. Why would the city install a permanent exhibit on a shoreline it
already knows will have to be redesigned because of sea level rise? The shoreline
trail and bayfront BM are in the FEMA flood zone. The city's southeast
Sanrifell sea level rise adaptation plan identifies this very corridor as an area
that will require future adaptation. The city is already studying options that
include raising, widening, relocating, or reconstructing the levy and the
shoreline path. So, we know that this landscape is going to change. Yes. Yet,
this proposal calls for 22 permanent history panels anchored in the same
corridor. When shoreline improvements eventually occur, those panels could
have to be moved, removed, lo relocated, repaired, or replaced, all at additional
expense. That simply isn't a good long-term planning. There is a better
solution, but the goal is to celebrate the canal history. Use a temporary or
rotating exhibit. The city has already demonstrated this concept with the civic
cent's music and moren through the decades exhibit. Temporary exhibits can
be updated, expanded, relocated, or replaced as community needs change and
as a shoreline evolves. There's also a smarter investment. Instead of spending
taxpayer dollars on permanent infrastructure that may later have to be
demolished or reconstructed, the city can avoid unnecessary future costs while
preserving the flexibility to adapt. Better yet, place the exhibit where
people can truly experience it in a location with parking, restrooms,
seating, shade, a ADA accessibility, and room for school groups and community
programs. not along a narrow recreational trail that is already
slated for future modification. No one is questioning whether the canal's
history deserves recognition. It absolutely does. The question before you
is whether a permanent installation belongs in a place the city already
knows will be fundamentally altered by sea level rise. I
respectfully ask you to reconsider the proposal and pursue a temporary movable
exhibit in a more appropriate location. It will honor the canal's history,
better serve the public, [clears throat] and be a more responsible investment of
taxpayer dollars. Thank you so much.
» I'll go ahead. Um, I'm also a Sparkle Point um, resident and I walk that path
every day. And the art is the water, the pelicans, the birds, the sky. I would
love to even see a little critter crossing the what are the um the little
predators who live on the little island, but as long as they're going the other
way. But the and there is absolutely no parking for anybody to come and look at
that art. and our streets are already crowded from from cars that don't are
not living there residents and so people who live there have a hard time parking.
So again, I think a more appropriate space to leave the nature, which is what
that path was originally designed for to to enjoy nature and the beauty. It's bad
enough if those lights go in because that's going to destroy the ecosystem,
but I would please urge you to look for a more appropriate place to put the art
which which deserves an appropriate place. Thank you.
» Sure, I'll go. Uh, my name is Stuart Dubie. I am a 29-year Sanrfell resident
at Baypoint Lagoon's HOA board member and tonight I speak as a volunteer with
Marsh to address the board's upcoming evaluation of the people's of of the
canal signage project. Um before I start, I think everyone's made this
really clear. We completely support preserving and sharing the history of
the Miwok Coast Miwok, the Canal neighborhood, and many communities that
shape San Rafll's history. We believe it's a story that deserves to be told.
The question before you is not whether this is an important story. The question
before you is is the one that your own bylaws require you to answer.
[clears throat] Has the applicant just demonstrated that the proposed peoples
of the canal project satisfies the public art reviews boards boards adopted
review criteria. These criteria ask that you evaluate the
project readiness, community engagement, long-term maintenance, design, and
whether the appropriate site has been identified. With those standards are
applied, I believe several important questions remain. First, community
engagement. Your bylaws require meaningful engagement with the
neighborhood organizations and adjacent communities for long-term art projects.
Yet hundreds of residents, trail users, environmental organizations, and
recreational users only became aware of this proposal on October of 2025.
Today, more than 290 verified petition signatures along with letters and public
testimony asked the city to reconsider the location, not because they oppose
the history, but the le but because they question whether the shoreline path is
the appropriate setting. That level of community concern deserves more than
acknowledgement. It deserves meaningful consideration.
Has the applicant demonstrated the level of community engagement envisioned by
your bylaws. Second, appropriate site. Your review
criteria specifically identifies selecting an appropriate site as part of
the project ready readiness. The shoreline path is not a downtown
streetscape, civic plaza, or museum. is one of San Rafll's most treasured
shoreline parks where the landscape itself is the destination. People come,
walk, run, bicycle, observe the wildlife, enjoy uninterrupted bay views
of one of the last remaining tidal natural tidal salt marshes. This
proposal will introduce approximately 22 permanent interpretive stations along
nearly two miles encouraging vis visitors to stop, read, interact with
digital content on a narrow shared use recreational corridor.
» I'm sorry, we're we're like 30 seconds over.
» Okay. Can I just >> speak?
» Okay, that's fine. Um,
it it will introduce approximately 22 permanent interpretive stations across
nearly two miles, encouraging visitors to stop, gather, read, interact with
digital content on a narrow shared shared use recreational corridor,
blocking the same path frequented by runners, cyclists, and fast moving
ebikes and ecooters. The board should ask these simple questions. Does this
installation enhance the shoreline or fundamentally change the experience
people come to there to enjoy? Has the applicant demonstrated that other
alternative publicly accessible locations were meaningfully evaluated?
Um, in conclusion, this proposal is unlike projects previously reviewed by
PAR. It is not simply a mural or sculpture. It's a permanent two-mile
interpretive experience that becomes part of the landscape itself. Your
responsibility is not simply to determine whether the part project has
artistic or educational merit. It is to determine whether the applicant has
demonstrated that this proposal satisfies the city's adoptive review
criteria and that this shoreline park is the appropriate location. We
respectfully ask that these questions be answered before any recommendation is
made to the city council. Thank you. >> I'll go next. My name is Reva Revis and
I live in Spker Point. Um, I'm going to speak to the educational value and
practicality. One of the primary justifications for this project is it
will educate Canal students and serve the 13,000 residents of the Canal
neighborhood and also uh the students of the Marin uh school system. We all agree
again that this history deserves to be told. Again, the question is whether or
not the Shoreline Path is the right classroom to bring a class here.
Teachers would have to bring students on a bus, park at at the if you're going in
the direction that the exhibit goes, they would park and then have to walk
two to four miles along a along a shared recreational trail to view signs and
access QR codes. But I want to speak to the rec the shared part of the
recreational trail. It is a very narrow path, very narrow. And it is full. It is
always busy. So, if you how you can you imagine moving school groups along uh of
of young children and then and then also there's lots of they're not supposed to
be, but there's lots of um um motorized traffic like scooters and bikes just
zipping by. Um which is I think would be a problem for school groups. Um but the
so imagine the children are the school children are going along. They're
viewing signs in big clusters of groups and they're accessing QR codes and
digital features, which raises another concern. Instead of experiencing the
marsh wildlife scenic shoreline, students will spend much of their time
looking at phones and screens. The experience becomes more like walking
through an outdoor museum than one one of enjoying San Rafael's most beautiful
park. And again, we've already talked about the lack of facilities that is
really critical for for school children. And then um I can't even imagine that it
meets any type of ADA uh requirements where you could actually take school
children. Um the the person who proposed this project stated the project is
warmly welcomed by the Marin school superintendent. Well, we we reached out
to John Carroll and he said he said my role has not involved participation in
the development location or visitor logistics of the project itself. My role
has been focused specifically on the art and history education components. And I
guess my time is up.
» Jimmy [clears throat]
artists and visual artists. We just pulled together some pictures so you
could see what we're talking about. Um, this one is an actual scale sign.
It's over at Chrissy Field in San Francisco. And this is a child. So, this
is what it would look like for the child standing at the sign. And there's one
sign there. And it talks about what you're seeing, the birds, the natural
wildlife. This is a sign that's already on the
path. It's the only one there. Well, see it, but oh, actually, yeah, it
won't be on there. And this is 22 by 22 in. This is 36x 24, which is the size of
this. This is how big those signs are going to be. Okay, this is an actual
interpretive. There's a definition for interpretive signage, and it means it's
wetland birds of walkman. If anybody's ever been at Andy's Market, you know
where that is before you get to the This is all about the birds that live in this
marsh. Um, this is the temporary exhibit at the civic center that we were talking
about and it's beautiful. It's music through the decades in Marin. You've
probably seen it if you went to the fair or something and they've moved it a
couple of times, but it gives you an idea of how you could put large panels
and there's parking there. You get the idea. There's bathrooms.
This is the path. This is what it looks like when people are there. It's almost
impassible. If you if the bike comes, you've got to really You really got to
do something. >> And the bikes, you're missing the bikes
whipping down. >> Yeah, the ebikes.
This is a flooded um this is a flooded part of the path where there won't be
any signs. It's privately owned and it's unlit and it's
» unimproved. You have to walk through that
» and during the winter, can you tell them what the what it's like in the winter?
» Yeah, it's worse than this. Finally, wet money.
» This is what happens to signage in that area and it's a regular occurrence.
There's lots of graffiti on ba waste baskets and the on the on the asphalt,
etc. This is the before and this is it cleaned up, which isn't really clean.
Thank you
for public comment. >> I wasn't going to speak, but something
that was just barely mentioned um but I think is really important and I agree
with everything everyone said is parking. Parking is a nightmare for us,
particularly on the weekends, which would be the most likely the highest
time that the public would come to see the exhibit. There are no parking
spaces. I live on Spre Point Drive in Spre Point. And um the parking at the
other end um is negligible. Um there's a few spaces. I can't imagine what
wouldn't be happening with school buses that are coming to find a place to wait
for the people in our neighborhood.
» By the way, um my name is Joanie Harris and I live at Baypoint. Sorry, got all
excited. My name is Susan Burns.
» My name is Rich Stock and I'm here on behalf of the Canal Arts Nonprofit,
which is the the author of this project. And I know some of you may not know
about this, but I just want to give you a brief glimpse at the typical signage
that's being designed, proposed. This is one of 20 exhibits that will be
on on the path. Um [clears throat] the uh
misinformation that I think some folks are suffering from is that the uh
exhibits are going to be twice the size that they really are.
They'll be located uh
together, which they're not. This is a two-year, excuse me, a twomile
project. The average space between these exhibits is a tenth of a mile. That's
about a 2 to three minute walk between one and the next. U this is a this is an
actual image showing one of the signs and the
next one that's approximately a tenth of a mile away.
And that bears no resemblance to to what's being shown here. And I and I,
you know, I look at these and I think, you know, if I was evaluating a project
that was as congested and as oversized as this is depicted on the on the
website that's been created, I would object. But that's not what this is.
This project began four years ago with our partners, the Kushniwok
saying, you know, we have never told our story in public
and uh this is an opportunity that we can we can use. We worked with the city
to see if this is a a feasible project. City elected officials have been on our
side and warmly receptive of the project for all of this time. Uh the final
approval of course won't be until it goes to the city council after your
board reviews it. U >> sorry I think we've answered the
objections by uh by the loyal opposition >> and we can we can elaborate on that but
uh that's to give you a a quick introduction to what the project is.
If there are any questions we're here to represent saying it's opposition. We're
not opposition. >> This isn't a forum for discussion.
» I'd like to supporting the art itself. This isn't a forum for discussion right
now. >> Scotland.
» Yeah. I'm just saying it should be a public forum. [laughter]
» So I understand democracy may be a little bit different than it is here.
» We just try to limit the back and forth thing.
» Um thanks. Uh we go next. Um I also want people project of course. My name is
Brian Shaw. Uh I live in S Sano. Um I've been working with Rich uh as a project
manager and a historian the project. Um, I like I I think Omar Carrera of the
Canal Alliance and a strong supporter of the project put it really well uh when
he spoke in support of the project and said that for some time now we've been
witnessing uh these scenes around the country where Hispanic immigrants are
reminded that some Americans feel they don't belong here. And um he said that
the beauty of this um public art a public history is that it kind of
counters that. Um now I know a sense of history doesn't give like you know
knowledge of the past doesn't give any clear marching orders for present- day
political debates about about uh doesn't say how stringent or relaxed immigration
policies should be or environmental policies should be. But um the past can
provide extremely important context and guidance for how to conduct those
debates. Um knowing that California was part of Mexico not very long ago and
before that was Coast Miwok land and that our current bay is at least the
third iteration of San Francisco Bay. uh that just 20,000 years ago, Alcatraz was
once again a hill rising over a lush green valley and the coast was 20 miles
out by the Fairine Islands. Is the sort of knowledge surfaces questions um of
how we can build and sustain resiliency to live well and compassionately with
each other and with the land here today. Um now where should that story be told
in a book? Um perhaps. But I I think um history is about location and and I know
when I walked the path with Mayor Kate and uh Council Member Loren Galott with
Rich and and um tribal member Laurel Ross of the Federated Indians of Great
Rancheria. Lurel in particular stressed um location that when you were talking
about the Chief Maran where Maran County gets its name. There's the Marin Marin
Islands right um offshore um and talking about some of the environmental lessons.
Here's a um lagoon that could surface that. So
» sorry, that's that's time. >> Great. I'll I'll end there and and you
know, I think it'd be a shame to let the opportunity to tell this story in the
place that it that it is would be a real shame that way. Thank you.
» Uh [clears throat] Good afternoon everyone. Um, my name is
Laura Himenez. I'm a Marine resident and I have called this county home for 20
years. I am the current president of the board at the Ohio Center for the Arts. I
spent nearly a decade supervising social services and community programs at Canal
Alliance and working alongside canal families every day. I am here today
because the discussion is ultimately more about just public art. It's about
how we choose to honor the history that has shaped our community and whose
histories we choose to make visible in our shared public spaces. Over the
years, I've learned that art has a remarkable ability to create connection,
foster understanding, and cultivate the sense of belonging. Public art is not
merely decoration. It is one of the ways that communities preserve their
collective memory. Places carry the imprint of those who came before us. The
canal is no exception. Its history has not been written by a handful of people
or a single generation. It has been shaped over thousands of years by
indigenous peoples, successive ways of migration, working families,
environmental change, and the many communities that today continue to
contribute to its identity. The peoples of the canal project recognizes that
this history is larger than any one of us and invites us all to reflect on the
many lives that have shaped this place. I understand that some nearby residents
have concerns. Their perspectives clearly deserve to be heard, but public
spaces exist to serve the broader community. Projects like this invite
reflection, learning, and dialogue. They help us understand not only where we
live, but how we arrived here together. The proposed location is integral to the
project's purpose. Moving it elsewhere would separate the place from its
history. I respectfully encourage you, our civic leaders, to support the people
of the canal project as planned. Context matters. History matters. Place matters.
Thank you.
Hi everyone, my name is Aelia Vargas. I live in the area the Canal and I'm come
today because I support to reach and I support the all the commenters with LA
and I live uh in Canada for a long time and I like the area
the area park. I'm sorry my English is not too good. So I try so the people
walk with the dogs with the children because it's open for the public are I'm
not sure is private or I'm not sure
» because all the families it's only one space for the old area. I don't have
another space. I don't have another park. So I walk to the park four days a
week with my family with my a little dog and I respect all the families and and
the home. I I support the art for each and the for
community San Rafael and I'm very happy. I like the colors. I like the murals and
I'm very happy. Thank you.
» [laughter]
» comments. >> Can I ask a question? [clears throat]
» Just a quick question. Is Pickle considered a park?
» Yes. Okay. So, it is a park near the canal.
» That's all I >> Yeah.
» Can I say something else? I'm I'm just wondering why there's a beautiful
community center, Pickleweed, that has a lot of space and why not put the art
there where there's a big parking lot where buses can go in.
» I'm just going to pause, but again, this so this is not an item that's on the
agenda and so we're not going to be able to get into a dialogue or be able to
answer questions. >> I'm not asking for an answer on that.
It's a rhetorical question to consider a different location. No, everyone here
has has acknowledged the art's important. Absolutely. the history and
the art, but it needs to be in the right place
» and not in on a very narrow strip where we want to look at nature and there's no
parking, you know. So, there's this beautiful community center.
» Again, like I said, context to one comment per per person during the
public comment period at this time. So, again, this is not a forum for back and
forth discussion. Thank you. >> Right. Thank you.
Any other comments?
» Yes, right here.
» Excuse me. My uh comment is in Spanish. Okay.
Australia.
Last
I'm happy to translate to you if you want to please. Yes, please.
» My name is Deon. I live in the canal. My family is in the canal. I happen to work
with Rich Durk and some of his to support some of his projects. Uh this is
one of the few places that I have where I can go with my children. I feel that
this project represents me. I feel as though I want to walk down that path
with my children and being able to share where we came from uh where we where
we're headed and uh it's one of the few places that I have I'm summarizing.
Uh [clears throat] but I fully support uh this project because I feel it
represents me and my community.
» My um
for
same thing. I didn't catch their names, but you know, they often walk the path
back and forth. They love the area. They love being in it, and they feel
identified by this project.
» Okay.
» [clears throat]
» My name is Felix, I'm a member of the Bosel Canal organization in the canal
area. He and his family and his dogs, you know, it's important to go with your
dogs and go out. They walk the path. They think it's a beautiful area and he
feels as though having this uh exhibit and the art enhances the beauty of the
area and he feels as though it's a way to tell the story even for people from
who come from outside. If they are here, then they can show their families and
relatives from out of town, from out of state, from out of the country. you know
what the history is like in the canal for and where they come from.
» Can I just was this about the Miwok? We're limited to one public comment per
person at this time.
her name, which I missed. Sorry. Uh, but she supports Rich's program. her
daughter uh is part of the school of muralists that she belongs to and she's
able to um show her feelings not just the art through this uh you know through
the work that she does as a muralist with Rich's project but she supports
this uh project exactly because that because rather than just have graffiti
to have something that's historical that tells the story that is beautiful is
something that she supports.
Hey, like a really quick thing. I'm listening to everyone. There's not one
person in this room who doesn't want this project to go through. Not one
person. We are all in favor of the of the art project going through. The only
issue is the safety. >> Have you already spoken?
» Yeah, I did. >> Yeah. Okay. I just want to again just
one comment.
» Okay. I just I just want to finish by saying that our concern comes because of
the safety the because it's not permanent. path is is not permanent
because of what's planned and because it's um
the the best place is where people can come together in a community center
where there's where there's restrooms where there's picnic areas where there's
water none of which are available on the path and it's a four mile round trip for
children so um and crossing undeveloped areas So
please, you know, support the project, but
support it in a place where we really can enjoy it. That's just
» other public comments.
» I am closing public comment. Uh [clears throat]
any uh staff care to respond to questions raised during public?
» Yeah, I'll just again thank you all of you for being here. I know that you have
gone out of your way to be here, taking time out of your schedules and I just
want to acknowledge that. I'm also going to acknowledge that you know at this
point in time the city has not received a formal proposal that has come to the
public art review board for review and so this topic has not been brought to
the public art review board at this point in time. Um the city has created a
project web page um that is on our website. So if you go to the city's
website and look up the peoples of the canal project, you will find information
there including uh the timeline, the city's review process, information to
date, uh the proposal as we understand it at this point. And that is a page
we'll keep updated as we receive information from the project team. We'll
make sure that that page is updated. And we'll also make sure that um anyone
who's corresponded with the city to this point. As I mentioned, we have a project
file that we're keeping. So, if you have any written correspondence that you'd
like to share, we will collect that. We'll also be communicating to try to
make sure everyone's aware of how they can stay involved and make sure their
voice is heard as the project is routed through the city's review process. So,
want to share that information. >> Will there be any opportunity? We're
gonna we're not going to take questions right now at this point in time for this
topic since the public comment period has.
» Okay. This is just a procedural procedural question.
» Go ahead. >> When it is on the agenda,
» is there an opportunity to actually have a dialogue service?
» I can talk with you offline a little more.
» Yeah, you can. If you have any written statements or comments that you'd like
to share, I can [clears throat] collect those.
» Thank you. Thank you for your time. Appreciate it.
» Thank you so much. >> Thank you so much. I appreciate it.
Thank you. City of Sanel.
» And you're welcome, but stay for the rest of [clears throat]
» those. Yes.
» It's okay. You can leave them. >> I can take out a couple of chairs.
» Thank you all. >> Thank you so much. Thanks. Thank you.
Thank you very much for listening.
» Give it just a quick pause as people are are
acting chair. I'll turn it back over to you.
» Well, fun night to be acting. >> What?
I know. He's like, "Is this okay with you?" I'm like, "Sure." And then
» 25 people on a non-aggenda item. Okay. >> Am I able to ask a question about the
process to move on >> at this point? But if you have a
question, yeah, >> I I I mean, just for all of us to be on
the same page, I'm looking at the page um that explains the process and and
what I see is this project is on hold with internal staff review with city
staff. And then once [clears throat] that if if that is
if it's approved to the next stage then it would come to the public art review
board. >> Yeah.
» Yeah. So as I mentioned we at this point the city has not received a proposal. We
we have received what I would call an informal
um conceptual plan. Um and if you go to the project web page you'll you'll be
able to see a little more information about what that is and what's comprised.
But at this point, we haven't received um what we would deem a formal proposal
that could be submitted to the public art review. So, at this point, it's
really with the Canal Arts and their project stakeholders. Um they're
continuing, my understanding is they're continuing to refine the project scope.
They're continuing to um engage the community and we're encouraging them to
um really consider community feedback so that they can develop a proposal
proposal that's in alignment with our public art board guidelines. And we're
not sure when we'll receive a proposal and at what point it would then come to
the board to continue in that formal review process. As a follow-up question
then I am curious to know how how are we defining public art and how did this
project fall under the public art umbrella
versus the historical society or parks and wreck.
» Yeah. And I think this is where we're kind of getting into the the um
potential where this becomes more of a discussion about something that's not on
the agenda. And so I think I'm going to pause it at that point with the
understanding that >> clearly there's a lot of community
interest in this topic. there's some questions and this hasn't been formally
brought to you to really you know advise or clarify on any of those kind of
questions but uh it is something I think at a staff level we've been tracking
since 2022 is a proposal that we've been aware of um and we've been really just
advising the the project stakeholders on what our review process would look like.
So, I'd be happy to share additional information with the board and make sure
that you feel well informed um so that you can be prepared for if and when this
proposal will come your way. >> Just to follow up on that person's
question, when it does come to us, is there going
to be maybe invited to come in here and have a dialogue? That feels like that's
not that's not a thing, right? >> So, we would follow our standard
process. Um, so if if a topic comes to the public art read board, anyone from
the public is welcome to come and participate as part of the meeting
format. Now, prior to that, I'd encourage we've encouraged the canal
arts to engage the community in a variety of ways. again that there's
information on the website about that, but I I do know that um they have um
they've been they've convened I think several community meetings and
gatherings to really hear from interested individuals and uh but yeah,
there would be a process that we would have in our meeting format to allow any
anyone to speak on agenda item um very similar to what we heard tonight. There
would be an opportunity for people to to speak. There'll be an opportunity for
you as board members to ask questions, to have dialogue with staff and the the
project stakeholders and then an opportunity to really discuss uh and
then ultimately make a decision for any topic that comes forward to the board.
That's true for you know for any topic involve that process
» and I'm assuming any other questions after the meeting's been adjourned
related to this specifically. I'm happy to share additional information and if
you have follow-up questions, you'd like more information, happy to answer.
» Okay. Yeah. >> Um, moving on.
» Uh, we're going to review the Centerfell uh big utility box art program, the
proposal to paint five utility box art murals downtown
» images. I'm gonna do a quick little intro just to make sure Bo is is with us
» and yeah, I think that's okay. >> Um, we're hearing noise outside the
room, so we're just gonna rearrange the room very quick.
» But Bo, thank you for joining us. Hey guys,
» I'll let you introduce yourself, but just for a quick introduction, um, this
is a proposal from the Sanfeld Business Improvement District by the Santafeld
Chamber of Commerce to paint by the utility boxes in downtown San Rafll with
art murals. And uh, so I'm going to turn it over to you, Bo, but I'm also happy
to share my screen with the um, proposal at any point if you want to walk through
that. um just let me know. >> Yeah, thank you. Um [clears throat] so I
am the board chair of the Sanfell Chamber of Commerce and of course with
uh the U CEO recently departing um part of the reason why I'm in this meeting
and representing the B as well. Um but basically the discussion yeah is about
the utility boxes and one in particular with the mission. Uh there's one right
in front there um that we were considering as one of the locations and
uh just upon the timing review and uh just out of respect for wanting to get
feedback before uh proposing that that box in particular because of just the
location and the sensibilities of the visual with the mission right there. uh
that we at this time would would propose or would um suggest looking at a
different location for that specific box to be uh painted. And um you know and
circle back uh at a time if you know we do get to the point of painting more of
the boxes to um you know approach the mission and get feedback as to um you
know their thoughts on both that and if so what kind of um you know what kind of
uh look and feel that they would you know prefer or just have their input on
and get their thoughts. um given that it is a rather you know uh important part
of both the mission city and the mission itself. So um that's that's really the
the kind of one note I think coming off of that. Uh Craig feel free to kind of
jump in with any um you know additional details or if you're I'm sorry too. I'm
on my phone so I'm kind of on a trail right now trying to chime in but um
that's uh that's the gist. Yeah, I I appreciate that, Bo. And I
might just share um a couple things just to kind of frame up the decision in
front of the review board right now. This is um uh this is a as an overview
of the project. Um the the downtown business Improvement District is
proposing a a partnership using um it's the California Art Council grant funds
that were received by the Sanfell Arts District um which just recently
rebranded. I see that um member Schoffler is here and has some
information about some of the rebranding for that district. But this would be um
a proposal to utilize around $10,000 of those funds to support painting five of
the utility boxes in downtown. The the bid's long-term goal is to create a
sustainable annual program where they would like to um use bid fundraising or
local sponsorship dollars to install at least one additional painted utility box
annually. Um this would be building upon the utility box painting project that
happened in 2024 through the Sanfell um Chamber of Commerce's leadership
institute. Um you may recall that year they proposed to paint I believe fix
boxes that were painted around downtown and so this would be building upon
really that um kind of that portfolio that the city has of public art in a
utility box program. So the the bid launched an open call for artists in
spring 2026. They received 20 submissions from artists. Um those were
then um reviewed by a committee um of the Sanfell Arts District key
stakeholders that really took a look at the artistic quality, the originality,
public appropriateness, alignment with the city's review guidelines. And
ultimately they selected five artists and designs that they felt really spoke
to the theme of the call which was Sanfell the the heart of Marin um was
the theme. Uh and so we attached as as part of the agenda um an overview of the
program as well as the bids um there the guidelines um for that call for artists.
The overview um that uh also included a project
timeline. Um what the bid is proposing is that if you know if the review board
um uh approves this project uh you're you would be recommending the project to
then go to the city council for final review. This would be deemed a long-term
art installation greater than one year which requires our city council to
review uh and make that final determination and approval. So, um, if
tonight the the review board approves, uh, this would then go to city council
at, I believe it is our August, I think it's the 17th meeting. That's when we
would, um, plan to bring this to council for review. Uh, if council reviewed and
approved, then the installation, the box would be prepped shortly thereafter.
Installation and painting would begin uh, as soon thereafter as possible. I
think these will likely be installed sometime in late August through early
September. Um,
uh, from a staff perspective, you know, we've reviewed the proposal. Um, we've,
uh, reviewed the, you know, uh, supplemental information and we think
that this proposal is in alignment with our guidelines. Um, I've, uh, connected
with our public works department to confirm that these utility boxes are
appropriate to paint. uh that they're not going to change anytime in the near
future. And they've confirmed uh they actually gave us a list of about 10
utility boxes that are traffic control boxes in the town that are owned by the
city and we felt would be appropriate to be part of this type of a program. Um of
those 10 boxes, um the five that are being proposed are ones that um the bid
felt would be a really good fit for the program right now. And as as Bo
mentioned, there was one box initially proposed at the intersection of Fifth
and A Street, which is right in front of the mission. And I think um wanted to
maybe touch base more broadly, more community engagement about that
particular location. Um so given the timeline, um that's been revised and
instead of that location, um the uh the proposal you received is accurate. It
actually identifies I believe it is fourth in Lutens was the alternate
location that was selected. So you know in the future I think there are still
quite a few boxes that are unpainted or potentially um boxes that have been
painted in the past that might be fading or coming up where it might be an
opportunity for a refresh. So in future cycles if this program um continues
there'd still be plenty of opportunity to consider that location or others
future. So, so things that um uh we'd ask the board really to be considering u
project readiness. Uh it appears from a staff level this project would be ready
to go. Um there's available budget. Um the um they the bid has um confirmed
that these artists would be ready to sign the city's art license agreement uh
which is kind of a standard process for us to make sure that we have an
agreement in place. um they would be ready for installation
for prep of the boxes. They would also be intending to uh apply an
anti-graffiti coating and um hopefully extend the lifespan of these boxes which
would be expected to be about five years. I think that would be the
expected lifespan for these. Um, so I think at this point, like I mentioned,
I'd be happy to pull up the artwork or to review the proposal, uh, if you'd
like to explore that, but uh, staff's recommendation would be to, uh, approve
this proposal to advance to the city council for final review.
» I think everyone probably would like to see them.
» Yeah. Yeah. Let me share my screen just a little
bit.
» [clears throat] >> Okay. So, I'm going to scroll down uh
one by one here in no particular order. This is uh piece with artist Ricky Watts
titled Horizon in Motion. And at the bottom of this uh packet, I
believe it it show identifies where these particular boxes are proposed,
where they'd be located.
This is piece number one
and some examples of past completed work.
See if I can zoom in one level here.
This is small on this screen.
Okay, this is the second piece. This is Brandon Baker
and some additional [snorts] examples of past
work
and I am not going to pronounce this last name correctly.
Nicole Andrajowskus. >> Sounds good.
» I was gonna say that. >> Sorry if you're if you're listening and
I got it wrong, but [clears throat] titled Heart in the Right Place.
Some examples of past work here.
» [clears throat and cough] >> This next piece, this is Delin Escalita
and an example of some past work here
and Oscar Morales.
some examples of past work here.
So these locations here, the the first piece would be
Watts piece and that would be located at Fourth and East Street.
See kind of corresponding number one on the map on the left. Second would be
Fourth and C.
Third, again, this was um originally proposed at fifth and A. I believe this
is now proposed at fourth in Newton.
The fourth would be at third in Newton. And then the um fifth box here, fourth
in Heatherton.
And then just for context, I really appreciated that the bid included a a
map here in the proposal that showed locations of other currently painted
utility boxes.
Try to zoom out a little bit just to see if we can see them all here. So the
currently painted boxes.
Okay. And uh Bo, anything else that you would like to add here?
» No, Greg, you did a great job. Um but yeah, that's uh the one box that we were
uh going to be have scheduled that we, you know, readjusted, but that doesn't
mean that we can't um you know, revisit that in the future for additional ones.
But, uh yeah, good job.
» I think at this point we would turn it over to the board for any questions.
Hi Bo, it's Jennifer talking. Um,
» hey Jennifer, >> how are you?
» Oh, good. >> Um, looks like a great project and um, I
love the theme, >> heart of Maren.
» Oh, we have some background noise. >> Yeah, sorry. There's some people
talking. >> Oh, [snorts] that's okay. Um, and I
think that all the artworks have a lot of artistic merit. I'm just wondering if
you could talk about how you think they connect to that theme, Heart of Marin.
And and I also was just wondering if the Chamber of Commerce planned to
really connect that theme with the utility boxes in any way. If there if
there was sort of, you know, like a a graphic or if you were going to actually
use that as um even just part of a brand for San Rafale. I think it just has a
lot of potential. and I loved it when I saw it. And so I'm just I'm just curious
about the connection to this art and that theme and whether that's something
you're going to amplify a little more or um you know use it on the boxes at all.
» Um for the themes themselves that was kind of the artist interpretation
of the heart of Marin. So that's you know kind of each one's source and uh
inspiration. So that was the connecting tissue. Now in terms of the you know
look and feel of the art, of course that's kind of subjective of to whether
they um to that degree accomplish that. Um as of right now um you know I don't
know if we're going to put like the actual new branding of the Sanfell Arts
logo anywhere on there. Um, you know, it is something that we just uh put
together or at least rebranded and that I think was be after this uh project had
already been um you know proposed and and and in in the works. So that wasn't
a part of that. That doesn't mean it can't happen in the future or look to
see how that could be done. Um but at the state of this uh submission right
now that's this is the uh the intent from the artist's point of view.
» Yeah too I think if you go into the proposal um four I think at least four
of the artists have kind of added a little narrative about how their artwork
how they feel it ties in with that theme heart of Marin. So I think it speaks a
little bit to that. And then um we have seen in some of these um the public art
installations that have recent rec recently been installed um supplemental
signage or branding or an opportunity to link back to a project web page. And so
I think that is definitely an opportunity and I think that um u prior
to bringing it to city council um if that's something that the bid would like
to add, we probably just want to include that to make sure it's really clear that
that would be attached, right? What that branding would look like. But um I I
think on a staff level we're supportive of that. We want to make sure people
really understand how these types of projects came to be, how they can get
involved and how they can get more information about the type of public art
in our community. Yeah. And I also just wanted to add that
given that this was um a project through the through the formerly uh DSRAD now
Marin arts uh group centerfell arts group that you know it was uh first you
know sourced there and vetted through that group before going through with the
B as well. though um there would be input beyond just uh the B's um you know
additions to it but I do think that on an overall you know scope that branding
and continue to brand and mark and show all the different the breadth of ways in
which the San Rafale Arts is going to be you know implemented around town that it
is smart to be able to to have it be recognized in that way.
» Yeah, I think it's I think it adds a lot to have it feel connected because the
art is so individual and different for each utility box. There isn't for
someone just passing by an understanding of how it is connected or or you know
without without super visible heart graphics.
um either it's the theme that you might want to connect it to or maybe you do
want to connect it to San Rafale Arts and have that emblem on every utility
box so that >> it's supposed to be on there. [laughter]
» Okay. Yeah. I I mean I just think that just makes it more powerful and
understandable for everyone >> than just kind of a oneoff why is that
there and why is that one there and I mean just to show that it's a program.
» Yeah. Um, and I love the theme. And so if Heart of
Marin is a theme and it's going to be played out in other places,
I I I mean, I'm just thinking this is this is there's an opportunity to maybe
just strengthen that communication. [clears throat]
I'll just say Heart of Marine is already a pre-existing thing. This is the heart
of San Rafale. So, we'd have to um and so um that's like its own I keep saying
that, but I like Heart of Marine is like a whole awards thing that's tied to
Yeah, the the heart of Marin is actually an CV and L awards day.
» So this is, you know, the heart of San Rafll.
» Yeah. >> Yeah. But no, your your point is well
made, Jennifer, and I think that they're some are more like I would say clearly
tied to the theme than others, but I do think that the um the artist statements
help illuminate. Um the one that I think was the probably the most like
» why is this here? The owie one. Yeah. >> So, that actually that person has done
boxes throughout the Bay Area. >> Um, and they get a lot of attention and
people kind of like seek them out almost like an Instagrammable thing.
» So, I think that was more of why people were excited. I mean, they had a nice
artist statement, but I think that was more based on like it's a little bit of
a big deal to have one in your town. >> Yeah. So, but yeah, everything that is
funded by the Sanfell Arts is supposed to have and will have um like some sort
of logo and then we all all of them are supposed to say somewhere and I think
all the ones that were done before do say California Arts Council somewhere on
them if that's also a requirement of the grant.
» Just just a thought on the owl design. Um, and this just just occurred to me,
but just with wildcare here in San Rafale, that to me is maybe a connection
to that emblem. And I don't know if there's a way to pull that in or whether
the I'm sure the artist didn't mean it that way, but um maybe there's a way to
connect it back to Wildcare. Um, and I don't know if you're looking for
sponsors for the boxes, but I'm just >> Yeah, it's an idea.
» Yeah. So the the but the to that end the
budget like this is all the $10,000 we we can go I mean I don't know if we do
that it covers the artist fees the supplies all of that
» that's um at our staff level that's my understanding is that yes that the bid
has developed the budget um I I'm trying to pull it up just to verify
um but I believe um I believe that they've allocated ated um $1,300 would
be the artist tip. Um that would include their time and materials. So that would
be a total of 6,500. Um they have included a budget for some box prep, the
cleaning, sanding, priming, the paint associated with that, that anti-graffiti
coating. Um and at the end some photography, so some marketing and
promotion that would help support that. uh as well as some um some admin costs
just to to help administer the program. So
» yeah, the the sponsorship is an interesting idea. Um but these are
funded all you know in terms of budgeted already. So, um yeah, but it is an
interesting idea. >> And Bo, my my understanding is that um
as I mentioned that the um the B is interested in, you know, doing this on
an annual basis and would be interested in looking for sponsors for future
cycles. I think what I saw in the um call for artists and the program
description was the possibility of um businesses, community members,
organizations potentially sponsoring a box in the future for around $2,000,
which would on a you know box bybox basis help support some of those
operational costs. Is that a fairly accurate description?
» That is. It's just not part of this the exact proposal. But yeah, it is, you
know, because right now the the grant is coming to a close uh soon. So the money
that has been allocated is allocated already for this specific proposal. But
we do, like I mentioned, you know, want to leave the door open for, you know,
the additional boxes to be covered. >> No.
[laughter] >> Sound like someone just said no.
» Yeah. I have another question if there's time. Um, just curious how the locations
were chosen for the various artworks. >> Um, I
» I mean like how did you choose to have the owl box in its spot versus the
hummingbirds in its spot? You know, was there a reason for that?
» Can't chime in on that one. I I am not was not part of that process.
» B, do you have any insight into that? Um, all I do know there is that we, you
know, worked with the city to identify which boxes would be available or which
ones were eligible for this. Um, the rhyme or reason behind that, um, I
cannot talk speak to off the top of my head here. Um, I can find out. Um but I
do know that there was um you know some thought given to each one given the
artist I believe and you know and then that was a result of what their artwork
was uh that they ended up presenting. So um it wasn't you know from what I know
I'd have to find out exactly what the what the logic was in terms of the
actual placement of each one. >> Okay. Yeah. I mean, you just mentioned
that one being more Instagrammable. Is that a place where I I I'm having a hard
time following the map on my tiny little phone, but um yeah, you wouldn't want
that on a super busy street where it would be hard for people to stop if that
was a goal, you know, to have that be something that you wanted people to stop
and be able to look at and gather around.
» I'm just I'm going to try to pull it where that one was now. Was it on third
or fourth? Um, I'm pulling it. I'm trying to pull
it up. It's >> You can pull it up.
» That one is Third and Luton, I [clears throat] think.
» Is that where you would you know, have you?
» So, Third and Luton. Yeah. >> Is that Is that a location where people
would stop and hang out and maybe take pictures with the owl? And
» No, you're right. Like Fourth Street would make more sense. It's more like
walking. Is that what you're thinking? Yeah,
» to be honest, I mean, she Sarah uh Tipple, who is really the person that
put this all forward, the director of the B, she um she put out all the boxes
and then had people just like in on the B board at like say who which where they
thought they should go. But I I mean like which ones they wanted to see
painted, I should say. Okay. But >> but I think she might have just assigned
them. >> You know what I mean? Like I I think
there was some thought into where people feel like it really would be great to
have some color and all that, but I don't know that there was um
a real planning around it. It's a good point.
» Is is there still time to think about placement of the art where it might make
most sense? >> I'd say from the sa city staff level,
yes. You know, I think as I mentioned, we've identified 10 boxes um that could
be eligible for this. You know, this would be five of them. So, I think what
I would um recommend if you did want to, you know, explore that or ask the bid to
explore that, we just come circle back around, take a look at which boxes are
available and um consider best fit. I do think with a couple of these proposals,
um, you know, the art, the content that would be painted, some of these boxes
are square. Some of the other boxes that weren't selected have like other, you
know, geometric shape to them. And so, you know, like I said, I wasn't involved
in the decision-m, but when I did um, speak with Sarah when she originally
submitted this, I know they had put some thought into that. And so, there could
be other factors involved that led them to pick these boxes. So, I'd really have
to defer to them making sure that it aligns with the program goals. But,
» like I said, from the city's perspective, there are other boxes that
could be considered. So, >> well, I don't and I don't think I'm
saying you should consider other boxes. I was just asking of this set because
you're ready to go and they've been designed for these shapes.
» Does the bid maybe want to revisit >> which art exactly goes where?
» That would be my comment. So, and Bo, you're a part of that, right?
» Oh, yeah. [laughter] >> Okay. Well, I want to be able to take an
Instagram picture with the owl. I don't want to get hit by a car.
» Hold on one second. >> Sarah, unfortunately, is on maternity
leave, >> right?
» So, um, but >> where?
» Yeah. And I can I mean, I I don't know how
» Oh, that is more walkable. Yeah. >> Yeah.
» I I >> buy the Walgreens.
» I don't like that. >> Right there.
» Yeah. I don't know. >> I also think I don't I don't know how
many changes can be made. >> Go like right there.
» I um I have like a tangential thought that isn't really sure. Um, for in the
one at uh fifth and a in front of the mission,
» I've like thought about how it's kind of like a blight. Yeah. You know,
» is it possible to maybe not with this, but just in the future maybe just paint
it the same as the mission? >> Like just to so that it's not that stark
difference and like it's such a specific color. It's kind of like it's here. It's
part of this. I don't know. >> [clears throat]
» like something very simple because I feel like if you put a mural on it that
act I mean it's such it's just so gorgeous to look at the mission you know
I don't know something to like >> and that was kind of the
» yeah that just a that that's a great point because what we were wanting to
avoid was you know putting some artwork on that box that would either stand out
or conflict in some visual way with the mission especially especially with the
visual looking up the hill toward the toward the mission.
» So, um you know, it's that's kind of why we were wanting to be careful of getting
their input on that part of it and also, you know, potentially what kind of look
and feel that they would suggest from their point of view. Um it would
probably still be within the heart of San Rafale theme. um but you know would
accent appropriately the mission in terms of you know the color and the art
design and those kinds of things. So uh we just wanted to be more mindful of
that uh which is why we you know kind of switched off of that one in particular
for now. >> Yeah, I would say I think you know the
city's perspective is that that is a really um important critical view
corridor. The aesthetic look there is important. And so I I echo what B said
that that there's probably an opportunity for us to talk with our
public works team about making sure that box is painted in a way that it kind of
just blends in and disappears into the environment. Yes.
» Doesn't disrupt from that. >> Okay.
» Yeah. And and also just lastly, it could it could be that that one is not chosen
as a as a muralish art work box just because of that. Um and maybe it is
painted to just blend together more, you know. So, um, that, you know, we of
course defer to the city and to the mission in terms of whe whether that
would work. >> Yeah, I think any kind of treatment that
just like makes it less jarring would be really nice. Like a mural I love murals,
don't get me wrong. It's just I don't know if you wanted to fill in the other
five. Yeah. Other four boxes or what? I don't know. I don't necessarily feel
like it has to be a mural, but I think it would be beautiful to have it be
gentle gentle against the backdrop. Um, but that's for another day because
we're not talking about that right now and we've we are
» Yeah. >> Anything else?
» Uh, I'll just chime in with a comment and say I agree with Jennifer's a lot of
Jennifer's comments on this and I think this is a great program.
Um, and I'm looking forward to eventually all of these being painted.
» Um, okay. So, uh, we are recommending approval. Is
that Yes. No. Uh, and advancing the proposal to city council for final
review. [clears throat] >> Well, just make a motion
» just Okay. So, so just to I I would I approve the
artwork and the program, but I would like to invite the bid to go back and
review the locations, >> the various artworks and and see if they
make sense for those locations. >> Am I [clears throat] able to do that?
» Yeah, it's at the board's discretion how you would like to propose the advances
forward. I might just recommend like if you have specific boxes you think should
be either flip-flopped or changed, maybe that would be easier to just advise the
bid on that. But um yeah, really at your discretion and I think there's
» always opportunity in between this review and city council for revision,
right? I think um prior to it going to city council if they wanted to make
changes ultimately it would be city councils but what we would do is then
just be reflecting your comments in the city council staff report so they were
aware of what what you're recommending >> so is [clears throat] that included in
when we uh put forward the motion is that included like does she
» I might recommend have you know just continue if you want to have that
discussion right now just continue that discussion if you think that you have a
recommendation you want to make if you want to leave it up to the bid and just
make that broad then ultim imately it's going to be up to them to make that
determination. You know, they could leave it as is. They could um choose to,
you know, flip-flop two boxes or shuffle things around, but unless you give some
kind of a specific direction that you'd really advise them on, I think it might
be difficult for them to make that call to get a call.
» Okay. Well, so I mean just just a couple comments right now, unless I'm you're
saying right now is the time instead of following up separately. Um I would I
would put the owl boxes in a different location. Maybe number two, which is
right on Fourth Street in a pretty highly trafficked area where we want to
draw people to businesses. There's the Fox and Kit coffee shop. I forget what
else is there, but um then you've got the the third and Luton's location is
really everybody. That's a very busy street. There will be a lot of people
walking to Ritter House along that road, I think, with the new location. Um, but
otherwise people don't really walk along Third Street, Third and Lutens. It's
it's it's a it's a traffic. It's an artery. So, I would consider that for
whatever you might swap that with. Um,
and then I just think the branding opportunity, which I've already
mentioned, would be worth um, considering how to how to implement the
brand of the Sanfal Arts.
» Can I ask then if do you think that any of these designs would lend themselves
better to maybe the the vehicle traffic visibility as opposed to the the
pedestrian walking? Well, I mean, honestly, that's probably why they chose
the owl there because it's so graphic. >> Most readable when you're driving by.
» The Dia de los Muertos like that is highly graphic
» and really because of all the, you know, the contrast. It's like really easy to
see idea. >> Where where's that one?
» Up by the mission. >> No, they they changed that.
» Yeah, that's the fourth and Luton, I think. There you go. That's easy to swap
then. One for the other.
Yeah, and that actually does make a lot of sense given the, you know, kind of
entry point to Sanfell that that artery is.
» And then location five, Heatherton, is that at [clears throat] the transit
center? >> Because that could be a good one, too.
» And that's the hummingbird.
Um, and then the Mount Tam one is up by
Kane's Tire and the West End.
» Literally closer to Mount Tam. Yeah, >> you can probably see Mount Tam still
until the building is built. How is it going to relate to the building that's
going to get torn down? And
» I I just want to say I don't know that it's our
job to like completely redesign it, but if like we want to swap out a couple
that feels good. I just I also want to honor that like you know this was
Sarah's proposal and she put it together in a certain way.
» Right. >> Okay. So I definitely think I I hear you
what you're saying and especially with regard to I mean she literally Sarah
brought this person this owl person to the table and said like these are things
people come to see and your point is very well made that like coming to that
corner is not ideal for a multitude of reasons. [laughter]
» Um >> so I wonder
where do you think is the best spot for it then?
I think that number two location for the owls,
but I encourage anyone else to chime in
because it's really in the business corridor and it's it could be a draw to
some of the businesses. >> Sorry, which one's
» that or? >> Sorry, the number two location is my
um >> Fourth and Sea Street, I believe.
» Yeah, thanks Craig. That's near. >> No, sorry. I meant which which uh mural
is is set for there. >> She's uh it's the really the cool one
with the the anatomical hearts. >> Surreal.
» I like that. >> I would like
um Well, where on Fourth and Luton is it?
Which side is it on? Because there's just a newly completed mural right
across the street from Fraam on the Encore building.
» It's very bright. I'm gonna share on Google Maps. I had
just pulled up um for reference. >> So, I wouldn't want something to get
lost, >> right?
» It's not it's not exactly on the corner of fourth and C.
» Um so, this is this is Luton's Yeah. >> Here.
And this is looking down Fourth Street. >> Where's the box? So, the box I'm gonna
go up is really more on Luton's. >> Oh, it's up by the record store.
» Is that where we are? >> Yes. Okay.
» Well, that's where Bose's offices. What does Bo want to look at every day?
» Yeah, exactly. That's I mean, it's right in front of like the Mason building um
» or the free whatever the you know. Uh yeah, it's right across from our office.
And you know it it is um obviously a little tucked away there um just having
our office there it's not >> you know people do
» go on there but usually it's it's not that's not one of the main drag
» most visual ones for what it's worth. >> Where's the one on Sea Street then? I
couldn't tell from that photo. So, >> I would even put the owls there over the
location right now just because that is kind of a fun treasure hunt kind of
place if you think about connecting public art. You've got the big mural
that just went in and then you got the owl and then that could lead you to
something else. >> Um, that is Sarah's goal. She wants to
have like a little >> connectedness. Yeah.
» Yeah. That's I think that's smart. What are they called? Public art utility
book. >> I think that's super smart. come back to
this is the third Newton's which we were discussing more the traffic corridor
» yeah that's that's obviously right a much that for that one is going to be
more for people driving by not walking um being able to see it at you know
higher speeds and on the way through into Santafelt
» I mean or the or the Mount Tam one there. Everyone's going to see that one.
The most people will see that box. Either the
» Yeah, that'll >> the the the skull or the Mount Tam maybe
feels more bold and graphic.
» Was there a different intersection that you wanted?
» Yeah, it was the I was curious where you were talking about on Fourth and C.
I couldn't tell what building that was. which is weird cuz I walk down the
street every day.
» Intersection of fourth and C. >> And there are no boxes
» and try and re see where this one is.
» I think it might be up the hill.
It's right here. Ah,
» so it's more on Sea Street >> just up the hill from
» And on that block is Fox and Kit and some other things.
» Yeah, if you go just up store Fox and Kit, the parking garage soon to be the
12th Women's Sports Bar. >> Yes.
Okay. >> Yeah. So, so again, that one, you know,
is is not going to get quite the high traffic that the uh the other one is.
» But I think it's a draw. I I just I just think you Yeah. And I'm repeating
myself.
Yeah. Um I mean I think to the earlier point I think it is worth considering
you know swapping based on those suggestions. I think that changing any
of the artwork at this point is would send things you know to a a new a re
revisited level. But um yeah, I think is if there's an
opportunity, I guess, to to re reassign those before the August board meeting um
to be able to approve it. Um but in terms of the process, unless we're
actually doing that tonight right now, um there could be I don't know, is there
an opportunity for a follow-up offline? Yeah, I think there is. It's really at,
you know, at the board's discretion and Bo, I think at your discretion if you
feel like you'd like to make any changes um uh before you bring it to city
council. So, you could definitely just continue the conversation offline after
the fact to try to refine that. Um but the the key thing from our perspective
as city staff is going to be u making sure we understand which specific
utility boxes are being proposed and what the final proposed artwork will be.
I think the the specific configuration of those and flip-flopping them really
isn't going to impact our staff level recommendation that the project move
forward at this point. >> Yeah. Perfect.
» Yeah. It's actually kind of a fun game. >> [laughter]
» Uh so can I make a motion to approve? Okay, great. Uh I would recommend
approval. Can I would like to request a motion and a second uh for approval in
advancement of this proposal to city council for final review. Can I get a
motion and a second? >> One motion.
» A second. Great. Uh
did you get that, Becky? Yes, I did. Um, acting chair merit.
» Oh. Um, yay. [laughter] >> Members,
» yes. >> Member Skinner,
» yes. >> And member Schoffler,
» yes. >> Motion approved. Thank you.
» Thank you guys. And um just in that followup um please uh provide any
thoughts, suggestions uh reasoning or you know whatever uh
those ideas are because I think that there was some good ideas there and and
makes a lot of sense to maximize both the visual uh look and feel of them but
also there is that unique opportunity here to have like you know these uh
these communities of of social media communities for artists that have, you
know, people who have followings and people who will show up for different
art installations, both um both murals, boxes, and u you know, the other kind of
arts that we've been proposing. So, um if you could send those to me, um that
would be really helpful. >> Um okay. And and appreciate it.
» We'll do. Thank you, Bo. >> Thank you, guys. Thanks.
» Uh, next agenda item is uh, appointing a vice chair for the remainder of 2026
calendar year, >> which will not be for that many meetings
really. It would likely be for one more meeting, the October meeting. You know,
I just as a reminder, this was um a decision that um was part of the January
agenda, but it was delayed because I think there were only three members
here. And so the members over here said, "Hey, let's just wait." We had, you
know, canceled the April meeting because there was, um, no action to be taken.
And so here we are. And so, um, I, you know, I think we did consider whether
this should just be like a year appointment, but we'd like to stay on
the same schedule. And so we would expect that in October, we're going to
bring another agenda item to select the chair and the vice chair for 2027. And
so what I would say is it's probably a low stakes assignment for one meeting.
Um but you know as we saw you know with with um chair Jiao out tonight we do
need someone that can step in and assume those duties as so happy to share any
more information about what that role entails. Um but I turn over to the board
to make that decision.
» Well I think that you did a wonderful job tonight.
» Thank you. >> I don't know how does it work with me
coming off of chair. Um I think at this point um trying to refresh my memory. So
you were chair last year. Yes. Right. Yeah.
» And who was vice chair last year? I think it was it was
vice chair. >> Um you have also I believe served as
chair and then I was vice chair >> and you were vice chair previously. So
» well I think for the one remaining meeting I would just suggest we stick
with someone who already knows the process.
» I think what Craig is trying to say is usually somebody who's been vice chair
then becomes chair. Like if you're interested in being chair
» I think it's it's really at the discretion of the board for this
appointment. I think it would not and this decision wouldn't impact next year
either. I think that anyone could serve in any of those roles next year.
Typically we roll whoever the vice chair is would then typically become the
chair, but since this is really such a short um appointment, I think that could
be open for discussion for the board. But uh I think keeping that in mind, you
know, I think the natural progression would be someone does serve as vice
chair rolls into the chair position next year. So
» yeah, so whoever's interested. I mean, I'm h I'm happy to do it for a meeting,
you know. It's no skin off my back, but Emil, if anyone is like dying to have
that on their um professional website, you let me know. I don't it it's
[laughter]
» I would say if someone wants to be chair next time that hasn't been chair that
they should probably take it. >> Yeah.
[clears throat] or or put their ring hat in the ring if
you will. >> Either
» or anyone anyone on the board can appoint anyone and throw a name out
there if they so choose.
I mean, I do feel like you've been around a very long
time, >> but I also know that you I don't know,
sometimes you aren't always available, but none of us are to be honest. So,
» um I I mean, I'll do it if I if you're not interested. Yeah, but I'm not.
» I don't think I'm interested in this year. Yeah. I think I I've only been to
I haven't been to as many meetings as the rest of you. So, I think I want to
» So, maybe be a vice chair next year. >> Well, I I I would offer my services to
take a turn because you all have had you've already done that. I'm not trying
to duck out of responsibility. [laughter]
I just feel there's experience levels that exist.
So, >> uh I'm happy to do it and then you can
do it next year. The real the real year >> be continue
» the real year. [laughter]
» This is why it's kind of a fake year. >> Yeah.
» Uh so can I request a motion to um what am I doing? Appointing Sandival as vice
chair for the remainder of the 2026. Where are you? Are you laughing because
I'm saying your name wrong or ridiculous? Appointing Sandival like
[laughter]
» for the remainder of the 2026 calendar year. Can I get a uh a what am I saying?
Sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm really tired. Really tired.
» Um can Yes. Motion. >> So moved.
» Second. >> Second.
» All right. Congratulations. >> Congratulate the vice.
» Let me let me take a quick roll call. Acting chair Merritt.
» Yes. >> Member Sandival.
» Yes. [laughter] >> Member Skinner.
» Yes. >> And member Schoffler.
» Yes. >> All right. Motion approved. Thanks you
guys. >> Can you vote for yourself?
» Clearly, we know a lot, Jennifer. We're doing really well. [laughter]
But yes, by the way, you did a really good job interrupting,
» you know, like having to stop people. That's hard.
» Who me? >> Yes. I
» Yeah, that is >> I did not feel like I was doing I I was
just waiting for any break or like any breath, you know, so hard.
» Anyway, okay. Um at this time, I would like to invite Craig Ver, assistant
library and recreation director to share their stuff as report. Well, I'm going
to keep it very short because I know it has been a long meeting and just say
again, thank you all for being here. Really appreciate it. I know that was an
unexpected amount of public comment for that topic, but just want to reaffirm
like I I'll try to keep you all in the loop on when we receive more information
about that project. Um, and I think it's really so cool to see the power of
public art, right? even though there's some strong opinions, I think that's
really um speaking to the importance of the work that you're all doing in the
community that art is intended to evoke an emotional response and even the the
proposal of an art project is doing that in our community. And I hope that this
silver lining is that that can lead to some really cool conversation and
dialogue and hopefully a good outcome for our community just like we've seen
with some of the other public art that's gone in.
kind of use as a segue. I know on Friday there was a celebration at the Rafale
Theater. I know Morgan, you were there, had an opportunity to speak and I just
wanted to say kudos to all of you and your role in helping to um review the
the downtown public art installation that went in recently. If you haven't
had a chance to see um you know the statue that's out front, the mural on
the sea street garage, the mural at the civic um the courtyard plaza has gone
up. Um another statue will be going in front of city hall very soon. There's
Wyatt Hersy's mural on second street which is all this artwork I think
personally is just it's so beautiful and it's so cool to see that project come to
fruition. But I don't know if you had um a door count at the event or how many
people attended. Well, we had um we had [clears throat] 128 RSVPs. We think we
had about 86 people there. >> That's great. Yeah. Really well
attended. I think a good opportunity to celebrate the artist for the artist talk
as well as the walking tour downtown. >> Um [clears throat] and so, uh just kudos
to everyone that was involved in that, particularly from the city team. I just
want to give a shout out to Stacy Lawman and economic development for her
leadership in that from our side. So, um and you know, that was kind of the key
thing I just wanted to mention this evening. Like I mentioned, it was a long
meeting, so I'm going to keep it short of my end, but if there's any questions
we can do to help support, feel free to let me know.
» Thank you. >> Any questions from the board, for staff?
» No, I would just echo Craig's comments. I was there Friday night and Morgan and
Stacy did an amazing job. It was such a celebratory night. So well attended,
really great energy, a wonderful roster of speakers.
Damon Connelly was there. Um, it felt very important and it was beautiful
weather. >> Awesome.
» And the band was really great. Um, kind of a Santana style music. I It was just
super festive. It was a really, really fun night downtown.
» Thank you for coming. >> And thank you for coming.
» I'm really sorry I was one of your RSVPs that didn't come.
» Me, too. It's all right. >> It's okay. It's all right. I'm just
kidding. [laughter] I actually didn't see it.
» The kids demanded a last minute trip to Russian murder.
» Oh, I'm sorry. >> No, it was great. It was really nice to
have everybody there. It did feel very celebratory. It's It's been a long
journey, the [clears throat] San Rafale arts. And so, I think to have something
to point at like that, something really tangible for people to absorb and
appreciate um always feels really good because there's a lot of work that
happens that's behind the scenes or like smaller program work that I don't think
is as visible. So, that was really exciting. Um, and I have some goodies
for you. And that's it. >> Um,
I don't have anyone else. Nope. Okay. So, opening public comment and closing
public comment because nobody is here at the moment. Um, any other uh reports,
meetings, conferences, seminars, anything exciting happening?
Maybe one kind of a tangentially related plug, but um the library community
center project here at Elbert Park. Uh we is the measure P project. Um we did
release a survey that the city has out. It's published. It's on their website.
Um we put out our summer recreation brochure mailer. There's a QR code on
the back of that. It it should have hit all Sanderfell mailboxes. But I just
encourage you to spread the word about the opportunity to share feedback. Um,
even though that is this is a capital project and it's focused on the library
and the community center, there's a public art element to that. I think that
we're really interested in the community's feedback on the, you know,
the architectural design. How does this building fit in with the downtown and
really speak to the built environment here and what kind of programs um, does
the community want to see and do we need to plan for? And so, just encourage you
to check that out. I I have copies I can share with you of that flyer if you want
to spread them around. >> Is it on the door here?
» It's on the door in all of our facilities.
» It's been out for a while. >> It's been out.
» I was like I feel like I took it >> a couple of months. We're going to have
that up through I believe midocctober. So there's still plenty of time. I think
we've received more than 700 responses so far, but we really want to make sure
that the the word has been spread that this opportunity.
» You're publicizing it more. Is that going to go on social media?
» Yep. It's been up on our city snapshot. has been up on our social media. We'll
continue to push it out. It's going to be included in our um fall winter
activity guide as well, which will get published in uh early August here. So,
» when does it start? >> Uh that project will we're going to be
um so we have a a request for proposals for design firms out right now that
closes on June 29th. Um we're hoping to get um into an agreement with a design
firm this fall and that's uh right now we're we're doing conceptual design. Um
so we'll enter more of the you know the details design construction documents uh
and then hopefully um be getting into construction likely sometime in 2028 I
think is what we're thinking right now. So that's going to come faster than we
know. U separately on the note of social media
I don't know if any of you spend much time on ne Yeah
» there I well yeah uh there has been a massive and positive response to the
mural. >> Yeah
» I mean it was like more comments. It was like it was like kids on ebikes level
commenting on there. Yeah.
» Yeah. Uh you saw me like responding to people
» and I was like I'm gonna because some people I I try to bow out of those
conversations. Um the one uh what's the location?
» The hand. >> Yes.
» Street. Okay. >> Yeah. But it was all I mean
overwhelmingly it was positive. It was you know a couple people like a waste of
our tax dollars. Like not your tax dollars. I didn't want to I didn't want
to >> I didn't
» I did I did respond to people that were like this is just going to get graffiti
and I was like listen we've got some anti-graffiti coding on there and if you
see graffiti you alert public work cameras take care of it
» anyway um but no it it was actually very heartwarming um because it was organic
and like I jumped in after like 50 comments like it was already a very
positive conversation it was really nice >> on that note that the two other garages
that precede that one. >> Um, I assume there's been a conversation
about embellishment of those or paint or I who pays for that and how does that
» the city? >> Okay.
» Um, that actually interestingly the garage on the one that's like one block
earlier. What is that? The really that has like a B on it. Yeah.
» That was identified originally as being a location for that bigger mural. And I
think the feeling was it needed a lot of work before it would even be mural
ready. >> Whereas the other one was in good enough
shape that it was >> Yeah.
» Even if there wasn't a mural on that that's just cinder block type right now.
It looks just old and uninvited. >> Just needs to be painted.
» It just needs to be painted. Is that a conversation?
» Yeah. I I think that >> somewhere
» there's quite a few things that would go into the conversation, but you know,
like like you mentioned, Morgan, I know that we evaluated quite a few different
potential properties that could be part of the program. Now, when it comes to
more the routine, you know, the painting, the maintenance, um, I'm not
directly involved in like our parking services operational budget or the DPW,
the budget that would be required for that and how that type of project would
be ranked in our priority list of, you know, use of city funds.
» Okay. >> Um, I think, yeah, I agree. It's
probably not the prettiest building and I think we've all probably agreed to
that. But at this point, it just may not fall on as like a high priority for the
city. >> That's more city council level.
» That would be a city direction. >> Yeah. Gotcha.
» Now, if outside funding came in to support efforts like that, I think we
would always be taking a look at how that aligns with our staff capacity and
how we want to, you know, kind of manage that kind of work. If it's art related,
I think it would ultimately be coming to this board.
We do not right now as a city, we do not have a public art budget. I think that's
something we've kind of shared at this point. We really don't have any funds
available for those types of, you know, beautifification projects. They're
really art based, but I think we're all interested in ways we can beautify the
city and make sure that our city facilities are clean, they're safe, and
that they also really look inviting. So, >> yeah, but that'd be a long bigger
picture conversation about city funding. the grant from the um California Arts
Commission. Was that only for this year? I'm
» It's a three-year grant. >> Oh, okay.
» So, it but it's ending this year. >> Um and
» Oh, >> have I been here that long? [laughter]
» So, a lot of projects have been done with the money. Um the public art being
the largest expenditure at somewhere in the range of $250,000
including like the management of the whole thing. Um it's all public
knowledge. Um, but I would say it would be we are looking forward to potentially
having another opportunity to apply for additional funds for the arts district.
It's a California Arts Council designated district and so that makes
sense. The California Arts Council's budget was pretty heavily slashed this
year. They only had $24 million. They're usually closer to 40. So, um I I'm I'm
I'm will openly encourage any and all to um to participate in advocacy efforts to
to really try to turn that around because that's a political matter
» like at the state level. Yeah, happy to. >> Yeah, I'm actually working with on like
a North Bay advocacy um thing. So, yes, happy to when that materializes a bit
more. [laughter] >> But yes, we all need to just use our
voices and say art actually matters and it's not just wallpaper.
So exciting. Let's see what else. Is that it?
» Anything else? I'll open and immediately close public
comment as there is no one here and no one on line. And this meeting is
adjourned as of 8:00 on the dot. >> All right.
» Thank you. And these are for you. You I saw you have yours. and say,