Subcommittee flags missing plaques, proposes QR-code plan and asks for funding clarity on public-art maintenance

A Civic Arts Commission ad hoc subcommittee reported Jan. 20 that a review of the city’s public-art plaque inventory found missing, damaged or inconsistent plaques and recommended moving forward with a QR-code strategy tied to existing plaques where feasible.

Subcommittee findings included: the original Ryan's bench had been removed and replaced with a rhinestone installation (raising the question of whether that is a new accession); several recently added benches and a mural (Tulansingo and related benches) lack plaques; one artwork (Vision Cube) appears absent while its plaque remains; the Veterans Memorial plaque could not be located; and a naming discrepancy was noted for the Pennington/Sylvester listing on the accession list versus the plaque text.

The subcommittee suggested prioritizing a QR-code rollout that would link users to online descriptions and photographs rather than immediately investing in full plaque replacements for every site. Commissioners discussed estimated costs for new plaques (roughly $800–$1,100 each) plus installation (approximately $300–$400), and noted that available funds were not yet specified. The subcommittee plans to meet again and bring a fleshed-out recommendation to the full commission in March, and staff reminded commissioners that the city budget workshop that could affect funding is scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

Commissioners also raised website and accessibility considerations: any QR-code program would require the public-art content to be listed on the city website and include high-quality photographs. Staff said a public-art map is in development and should be ready to share in about a month or two.

No formal funding or installation decisions were made at the Jan. 20 meeting; the subcommittee will return with cost estimates and recommendations.