Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/09/2025

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community using the city manager as a resource to plan and develop public art projects. This interpersonal role provides different groups a clear starting place for public art initiative. The city manager's understanding of various aspects of the community can give the project good direction from the start. She believes that the city has an interest, and the city manager has a role, in keeping local groups vibrant, maintaining good communication, creating positive public relations, and helping facilitate projects. The city staff person interviewed for this research stated that the city manager was instrumental in creating a public art policy for the community. The city manager has delegated the role of processing public art applications, although he plays a role in crafting the overall vision of the community. He said that he has observed the city manager step-in as needed if a project needed his support. He also notes that the city manager plays a role in disseminating information by suggesting messaging on social media posts and for media outreach. He provides guidance and makes suggestions, and has a good understanding of social and political considerations. The arts council member that was interviewed for this indicated that the city manager is the first person they approach when considering a project. He knows what is possible and can help identify funding opportunities. She believes that the city manager has foresight and can see what public art can do for the community. He serves as a liaison or"go-between"between the city council and the arts council. He attends public art events along with council members as a figurehead of the community. The art application process is fairly onerous in her opinion, and the city manager helps guide projects through the process. She says, she always goes to the city manager"first when we start a new project just to make sure it is feasible." 133