Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst
Title
SUBJECT: Consideration of an Ad Hoc Subcommittee to Review Public Art Funding, Artist Compensation, and RFP Practices
REPORT IN BRIEF
Consider establishing an ad hoc subcommittee to research funding structures, artist compensation practices, and guidelines used by other cities and public art programs to help inform future City-funded public art projects.
RECOMMENDATION
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission - Adopt a motion:
A. Establishing an ad hoc subcommittee to research public art funding, artist compensation, and RFP practices; and,
B. Appointing Commission members to serve on the ad hoc subcommittee and report findings and potential recommendations to the full Commission at a future meeting.
Body
AUTHORITY
Merced Municipal Code Chapter 2.54 - Arts and Culture Advisory Commission.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2025/26 Council Goals and Priorities
DISCUSSION
At a previous meeting, Commissioners requested further discussion about funding for murals, public art, performing arts, and cultural activities, including how artists are compensated, the City's RFP process, and opportunities for community input.
Cities and public art programs use different approaches to establish project budgets and compensate artists. These may include hourly rates, fixed fees, or funding based on the size and scope of a project.
The Commission will consider establishing an ad hoc subcommittee to research these practices and identify options that could work for Merced's public art programs.
The subcommittee would bring its findings and recommendations back to the full Commission at a future meeting for discussion. Any proposed changes to City guidelines, RFPs, or artist agreements would be reviewed with staff and the City Attorney, as needed, before moving forward.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
None at this time
ATTACHMENT
None