AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Hold discussion on the Arts Commission Recommendation Resolution 2023-01RR, supporting the Gateway Mural project proposed for the back wall of the old Hays County Justice Center (the building with Industry, THRC Downtown, etc.), and provide direction to the City Manager.
Body
Meeting date: March 21, 2023
Department: Convention and Visitor Bureau
Amount & Source of Funding
Funds Required: $100,000
Account Number: 12024226 56006
Funds Available: Click or tap here to enter text.
Account Name: Permanent Art
Fiscal Note:
Prior Council Action: N/A
City Council Strategic Initiative: [Please select from the dropdown menu below]
N/A
Downtown Vitality
N/A
Comprehensive Plan Element (s): [Please select the Plan element(s) and Goal # from dropdown menu below]
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☒ Core Services
☐ Not Applicable
Master Plan: [Please select the corresponding Master Plan from the dropdown menu below (if applicable)]
Arts Master Plan
Goals: Make San Marcos a leading destination for arts and culture; create a culture of collaboration
Implementation Strategy 3.6 - Activate underused spaces
Background Information:
In 2021 the San Marcos Arts Commission earmarked $100,000 in Public Art funding for a proposed “Gateway Mural” on the back wall of the retail building at 110 E. MLK Drive (the former Hays County Justice Center building which now houses Industry, THCRC Downtown, and other businesses.) The wall faces N. LBJ Drive and previously displayed the “Colors of Texas” mural panels.
This building serves as a gateway to our community and the Downtown District in San Marcos. A mural covering this large, blank wall would be a significant addition to the City’s public art inventory and help draw tourism to our community.
The building owner has agreed to take responsibility for wall prep and repairs before the project starts.
Union Pacific Railroad has granted conditional use of their right-of-way for the work this year.
The Arts Commission proposes to hold a nationwide call for artist qualifications, with the design selection process involving public presentations and community input.
Council Committee, Board/Commission Action:
The Arts Commission unanimously passed Recommendation Resolution 2023-01RR: Support for the Gateway Mural at its Feb. 15, 2023 meeting.
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommendation:
Staff recommends moving forward with the Gateway Mural.