SR 05:066 - Laserfiche WebLink

and comment on the project. The Youth Commission also previewed the model at its meeting on January 12. While it took no formal action regarding the proposal, the Commissioners received the concept with enthusiasm and support for the project. Staff reported the actions and comments of the Parks and Recreation and Youth commissions at the February 7 meeting of the Civic Arts Commission. Staff also reported the public responses gathered at the Library. Of the responses, 61 were "Highly Favorable," citing the project's sense of fun, design, color and graphic tribute to Mr. Gordon and activities at Val Vista Community Park. Seven (7) responses were judged by staff to be "Neutral," generally citing favorable responses to the design, etc., but expressing concern about maintenance issues, comfort, possible sharpness of tile edges, lasting qualities, etc. Another seven (7) responses were judged to be "Unfavorable," expressing various concerns regarding the style, longevity, appropriateness for the park, preferences for a more classic style, etc. The results of the on-site display of the model at its proposed location at Val Vista Community Park included six (6) responses of "Highly Favorable." After reviewing the public comments and responses, and reactions by the Parks and Recreation and Youth commissions, the Civic Arts Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council accept the gift of public art from the Gordon Family in memory of their son, Ryan. A model of the proposed bench will be available for the Council's review the night of the meeting. In addition, a digital photograph that depicts the piece is attached to this report. Staff anticipates that, with approval from the City Council, Mr. Grudsky will begin fabrication of the bench in March, 2005, and have the artwork completed/ready for installation and dedication this fall. DISCUSSION Staff has reviewed Mr. Grudsky's design, and found it to be an impressive and attractive concept. If approved and installed, the bench would add to the aesthetic qualities of the park and be a significant addition to the City's growing collection of beautiful public artworks. It would also continue the City's evolving tradition of memorializing its citizens in this unique, practical, and tasteful manner. Staff is also mindful of concerns about maintenance and safety. We will work with the artist to assure there are no sharp tile edges, and that proper precautions (i.e. extra tiles) and regular maintenance will ensure a long life for this new addition to the City's public art collection. It should also be noted that, indeed, a pattern is slowly developing around the creation of public art benches as a predominant approach in the City's Public Art Memorial Program. There are potential advantages and disadvantages in this evolutionary process, and the Civic Arts Commission will be addressing this issue in more depth before another artwork is proposed. SR 05:066 Page 3