The Portsmouth City Council meeting on September 5, 2025, focused on several key topics, including the acceptance of previous meeting minutes and a significant proposal regarding public art.

The council began by approving the minutes from the July 14, 2025, meeting. Following this, Chris Dwyer, chair of the Public Art Review Committee, presented a proposal for the donation of an original artwork in honor of Vernice Jackson, a respected educator and community figure. The artwork, created by French artist Romeo Mivikainen, features excerpts from W. E. D. Du Bois alongside a portrait of Toni Morrison. It is designed to be displayed as a textile rather than framed, reflecting Jackson's connection to both the local educational community and the arts.

Dwyer emphasized the importance of the piece, noting that Jackson had seen it shortly before her passing and was excited about its creation. The council discussed the potential placement of the artwork at the middle school, where it could serve as an educational and inspirational piece for students. The council unanimously agreed to refer the proposal to the school board for further consideration.

In addition to the artwork discussion, Dwyer mentioned ongoing projects, including a fairy house sculpture set to be displayed at the Strawberry Banke Visitor Center and fundraising efforts for a new sculpture at Bohenco Park.

The meeting concluded with a public comment segment, where residents were invited to share their thoughts, starting with a discussion on the resurfacing of Gate Street. The council's engagement with community art initiatives and infrastructure improvements reflects its commitment to enhancing the cultural and physical landscape of Portsmouth.