Minutes - Council Work Session - 04/25/2023

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2.03: Considering Public Art Opportunities Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood reviewed the Staff report concerning pursuing more opportunities for informed public art. He stated that there are aspects of this that was discussed at the Strategic Planning meeting. He asked Council for feedback and direction on the Public Art Plan and Policy, Whimsical Sculptural Carving of Two Oaks at Sunfish Lake Park, and the Women Veterans Memorial. Mayor Kuzma stated that we would like to talk about the Ramsey Foundation. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that there was an $8,000 pledge for public art. Jill Johns stated that she was the treasurer of the Foundation and the $8,000 has been reserved for public art and the Foundation is ready to help fund this. She stated that a big tie in for this is working with Economic Development and the Foundation came up with the focus of the next few years to be public art. She noted the importance of creating beautiful art pieces, not only for residents, but also for businesses. She shared that she has done some traveling to other cities and has found beautiful examples of the type of art that they are wishing to bring to Ramsey. She added that the Foundation is prepared to help with the community engagement side of this and would love to have a booth at Happy Days and at the Art Fair. She emphasized the importance of these art features within the City. She stated that this can also help set up for grant opportunities in the future. She added that the Foundation is committed and have the funds available to assist. Councilmember Howell asked if they are considering this public art to be more sculptures or if they are open to anything that would enhance the City. Ms. Johns stated that it will depend on how the plan shakes out, as this will be a City plan. Mayor Kuzma asked if there was someone in mind to do this art. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that for the public engagement aspect of this it is important to hear from the public on what kind of art they would like to see in the City. He added that there is not a capacity to develop this at the Staff level, which is why they would be utilizing the funds from the Foundation. He stated that this would align with Council's desire to have a policy in place for some of these decisions before they arise. Councilmember Howell asked the tax revenue of St. Paul and how much they are investing in the arts program. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that he was not sure but assumes it is a large amount. Councilmember Howell noted that she loves art and sees the importance. She added that she does not see a huge call from residents for more public art. She stated she would not want this to City Council Work Session /April 25, 2023 Page 3 of 7