City Council outlines new public art policy for maintenance and deaccessioning protocols

Billings City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing the city’s public art landscape by approving a new policy aimed at regulating public art installations. This policy, discussed during the July 7, 2025 work session, establishes clear guidelines to ensure that art in public spaces aligns with community standards and is well-maintained.

One of the key features of the policy is the requirement that 10% of the project budget be allocated for the maintenance or removal of art pieces. This provision addresses ongoing concerns about the upkeep of public art, ensuring that funds are available for minor maintenance or, if necessary, the removal of damaged pieces. If an artwork is deemed irreparable, city staff will have the authority to deaccession it, while other pieces will be reviewed by the public art committee.

The policy also includes specific exclusions, notably for the airport, which will continue to operate under its own set of federal regulations. Additionally, it allows for the use of city rights-of-way for artistic expressions, such as the eBird asphalt art project, provided that these projects receive approval from the public works director and Metransit if they are on transit property.

This new framework not only aims to prevent the installation of offensive art but also seeks to create a vibrant and engaging public art scene that reflects the community's values. As the city moves forward with this policy, residents can look forward to a more organized and thoughtful approach to public art that enhances the cultural fabric of Billings.