The City Council of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, convened on September 5, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including a significant proposal for public art and community engagement.

The meeting began with a presentation from Chris Dwyer, chair of the Public Art Review Committee, who introduced a proposed gift of original artwork in honor of the late Vernice Jackson. Dwyer highlighted Jackson's contributions as an educator and her involvement with the Seacoast African Cultural Center. The artwork, created by French artist Romeo Mivikainen, features excerpts from W. E. B. Du Bois and a depiction of Toni Morrison, designed to be displayed as a textile rather than framed. The piece is intended for the middle school, where Jackson had previously collaborated with students on art projects.

Dwyer recommended that the City Council approve the donation and forward the proposal to the school board for acceptance. The council members expressed their support, with Councilor Cook moving to refer the artwork to the school board for placement at the middle school, which was seconded and unanimously approved.

In addition to the artwork discussion, Dwyer provided updates on other public art initiatives, including the upcoming display of a fairy house sculpture at the Strawberry Banke Visitor Center and ongoing fundraising efforts for a new sculpture at Bohenco Park.

Following the art discussions, the meeting transitioned to public comments, with the first speaker addressing the resurfacing of Gate Street.

Overall, the meeting underscored the City Council's commitment to honoring community figures through art and enhancing public spaces, with plans for further engagement and updates to follow.