SECA COMMISSION SIMPLE AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Reach consensus on the City's responsibilities for existing physical public artwork located on private property and the proposed funding approach for calendar year 2027 and beyond. Direct staff to prepare a recommendation for City Council review and approval
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DEPARTMENT: Community Services
SUBMITTED BY: Jake Fiedler, Special Events Coordinator
Staff is responsible for providing a recommendation to City Council regarding the City's obligations related to existing physical public artwork. As part of this process, staff is seeking Commission direction and consensus on two separate matters: (1) responsibility for existing physical public artwork located on private property and (2) the City's approach to funding maintenance of that artwork.
Part I - Responsibility for Public Art on Private Property
Staff recommends establishing that existing physical public artwork located on privately owned property is the responsibility of the property owner unless otherwise stipulated in a written agreement with the City.
In the absence of an agreement expressly assigning responsibility to the City, the property owner retains authority and responsibility for the artwork located on their property, including its ongoing maintenance, restoration, insurance, any building repairs impacting the artwork, and decisions regarding its removal or replacement.
The City may provide informational resources regarding artists, conservators, and potential funding opportunities; however, the City shall not assume financial, maintenance, or other related responsibilities unless expressly authorized through a written agreement.
Part II - Funding Approach for Calendar Year 2027 and Beyond Calendar Year 2027 - Transitional Funding Approach
Staff recommends establishing a $75,000 annual budget for Naperville Public Art Maintenance in 2027. Existing physical public artwork located on public property will be the City's funding priority.
For existing physical public artwork located on private property that requires maintenance or restoration, staff recommends being authorized to work directly with the property owner to develop a mutually agreed-upon funding arrangement. This may include City funding, property owner contributions, or a cost-sharing arrangement. The amount of City and property owner participation will be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the maintenance needs of the artwork and available funding.
The intent is to provide a transitional level of City assistance in 2027 while establishing shared financial responsibility with private property owners.
2028 and Beyond - Long-Term Funding Responsibility
Beginning in 2028, the expectation is that property owners will assume full financial responsibility for the maintenance, restoration, insurance, and other costs associated with artwork located on their property. Property owners may pursue available SECA grant opportunities or other outside funding sources to assist with these expenses.
Any future City financial participation would require separate consideration and approval.