In a recent government meeting, Kennesaw officials discussed significant changes to the city’s public art approval process, aiming to streamline and enhance community engagement in the arts. The proposal, which has been in development for over a year, seeks to replace the existing Art and Culture Commission with a designated staff member who will oversee the review and approval of art exhibits.

Currently, the approval process for public art can take 30 to 45 days due to extensive public notification requirements, which include posting notices and sending letters to neighboring property owners. This lengthy timeline has posed challenges for educational institutions and community groups looking to install art exhibits, particularly those tied to academic schedules.

The proposed changes would allow a staff member, well-versed in arts programming, to make quicker decisions regarding art applications, thereby reducing the time from application to implementation. This shift is expected to foster a more vibrant arts scene in Kennesaw, responding to community demand for more public art.

During the meeting, council members expressed support for the proposal but raised concerns about oversight and the potential for community input. Suggestions included establishing a mechanism for the council to review art proposals before final approval, ensuring that council members are not blindsided by new installations.

The meeting also featured the introduction of Vaneer Ghazwani, who is set to take on the role of programming coordinator. Ghazwani brings extensive experience in community arts and is expected to play a crucial role in driving the city’s art initiatives forward.

Overall, the proposed changes reflect a shift towards a more efficient and community-focused approach to public art in Kennesaw, with the aim of enhancing the city’s cultural landscape while maintaining necessary oversight. The council is expected to move forward with legal advertisements and the adoption of the new ordinance in the coming weeks.