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BACKGROUND "Project Paint Box" is a utility box beautification program that celebrates local artwork and encourages regional artists to share their creativity throughout the City of Pleasanton. Vibrant artwork helps deter unsightly graffiti and creates pleasant spaces for residents and visitors. At the May 5, 2014 Civic Arts Commission Workshop, the Commission discussed this project and in July, a 'Call for Artists" was placed in local, regional and national artists' forums, and in the local press. Additionally several local artists were personally notified. On October 21, 2014 City Council approved two (2) designs for round 1 of Project Paint Box. One (1) box from that round has been completed (Neal Street and First Street) and a second box is in progress (Main Street and St. John Street). A third box was approved by City Council on January 20, 2015 and is currently in progress of being painted (First Street and Ray Street.) Two (2) of the three (3) boxes have received sponsors at the $500 level. Staff has already been contacted by two (2) additional sponsors that would like to sponsor artists for round two. Round two of "Project Paint Box" was initiated in March 2015. A total of fifteen (15) designs were submitted and received by the City. On April 10, 2015, all fifteen (15) designs were reviewed by the Public Art Selection Sub-Committee (PASS) and they forwarded eight (8) of the designs to the Civic Arts Commission for their review and consideration. At its May 4, 2015 meeting, the Civic Arts Commission reviewed the eight (8) designs and approved seven (7) designs for placement on utility boxes. Unfortunately the artist of the eighth design was unable to attend the Civic Arts Commission meeting, so that design will be reviewed at a later meeting date. DISCUSSION Seven (7) design proposals were approved by the Civic Arts Commission for recommendation to the City Council. The following designs are being recommended for approval and installation: 1. "A Sunflower Day" — artist, Robby Houghton a. Artist Description: Sunflowers, which originated in the Americas in 1000 BC, are considered to be gifts of 'radiant warmth' and the 'happiest' of all the flowers. They symbolize loyalty, longevity, nourishment and vibrancy. Set against the Tri-Valley Hills, they also represent a great day in Pleasanton, where all the wonderful symbolism does come true. (Refer to attachment 2 for additional detail.) b. Comments from the Civic Arts Commission include: "this design is very readable for a box." The artist has special needs and a commissioner commented "as a parent of a special needs student who attends Pleasanton Middle School, I am pleased that Robby will be doing this work, in this location." Page 2 of 5