Agenda Date: 07/28/2026
Subject:
Title
Arts & Culture Board joint Study Session
Body
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From: |
James L. Becklenberg, City Manager |
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Prepared by: |
Tim Nimz, Museum Director |
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Becky Kosma, Deputy Museum Director |
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Presentations: |
Denise Weed, ACB Chair |
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Tim Fuglei, ACB Vice-Chair |
PURPOSE:
The Board will present an overview of the Arts & Culture Community Strategic Plan, including proposed 2026-27 action items, and receive direction from Council for continued implementation.
LONG-TERM OUTCOME(S) SERVED:
Vibrant Community with a Rich Culture
DISCUSSION:
In June 2024, the Arts & Culture Board engaged Keen Independent Research to create the first ever Arts & Culture Community Strategic Plan, a key component of the Board’s Strategic Plan 2.0 which Council adopted in October 2023. Over the next 6 months, Keen conducted a rigorous community engagement process, communicating with over 350 residents. On May 20, 2025, City Council unanimously adopted the plan and directed ACB to begin implementation. On October 7, 2025, City Council approved the plan’s top priority, a Percent for Public Art program and policy.
Along with the creation of the Percent for Public Art program, ACB has completed or is in progress on several other strategic plan action items; and proposes a workplan that addresses additional action items in 2026-27.
The Board will review the themes, action items, and goals contained in the plan, highlight accomplishments, present a proposed workplan, and seek direction from Council to continue implementation.
BACKGROUND:
In November 2019, the City Council created the Arts & Culture Commission, now the Arts & Culture Board, with the charge to encourage and support the growth and expansion of culture and arts throughout the community. Through strategic planning, the Board develops policies and makes recommendations to fund current and future arts and culture needs.
Prior Actions or Discussions
April 8, 2025 - A joint study session with City Council for the purpose of reviewing the Arts & Culture Community Strategic Plan
May 20, 2025 - Council meeting, adopted Arts & Culture Community Strategic Plan
August 26, 2025 - Council study session, directed ACB to bring a Percent for Public Art program and policy for public construction projects with actual costs equal to or greater than $500,000 for Council consideration
October 7, 2025 - Council meeting, approved the Percent for Public Art program and policy for public construction projects with actual costs equal to or greater than $500,000 beginning January 1, 2026
FISCAL IMPACTS:
The Arts & Culture Board does not have a budget for operational expenses. If Council directs the Board to continue implementation of the Arts & Culture Community Strategic Plan, the Board may request the appropriation of funds during the City’s regular budget process.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends Council direct ACB to continue implementation of the Arts & Culture Community Strategic Plan.
ALTERNATIVES:
City Council may direct the Arts & Culture Board to focus on other priorities.