The North Miami Beach City Commission voted unanimously Oct. 21 to adopt an updated ordinance creating a citywide public-arts program that will require qualifying private developments and city capital projects to dedicate a portion of project costs to public art or pay a fee in lieu.

Vice Mayor Daniella Jean and staff presented a revised draft that narrows the program’s scope, clarifies thresholds for which projects qualify, and sets up a public-art selection committee made up of arts professionals and community representatives. The ordinance also allows “audio art” subject to decibel and time limits and creates a dedicated public-arts fund in the city budget.

Under the adopted rules, projects above specified valuation thresholds will dedicate a share of construction value (or an in-lieu payment) to support installations, maintenance and a public-arts plan. The ordinance tasks staff with bringing forward a master public-art plan, with guidance from FIU or other partners, to set priorities and placement strategy across the city.

Commissioners said the ordinance fills a long-standing gap and will help brand the city and enliven public spaces while allowing developers an in-lieu option.

What’s next: Staff will prepare bylaws for the selection committee, return a public-arts master plan and present an implementation schedule and budget line item for the fund.