Commissioners push for murals and youth programs, urged to tap public‑art fund

Commissioners at the Salinas Public Art Commission meeting discussed expanding mural projects and youth participation as part of a longer‑term public art strategy and were urged to consider using the city—s public art fund.

A commissioner who said they represented Urban Arts Collaborative described a recent trip to Salinas's sister city of Guanajuato, Mexico, and urged the commission to "imagine bigger and better" events that could draw visitors and provide sustainable support for local artists. Another commissioner relayed a request from Councilman Barrera to improve an alley near La Plaz Ella Bridal School with a mural to deter tagging, proposing a youth‑driven mural that local kids would help paint under consultant supervision.

City Attorney Chris Callahan noted there is funding available in a public art fund — financed by 1% of city capital improvement projects — and encouraged commissioners to factor that into their April public arts plan. Director staff told the commission the annual plan subcommittee has met twice and will bring ideas (murals, art displays and events) to the full commission in February; staff will follow up to confirm availability for a rescheduled February meeting (options: Feb. 9 or Feb. 23).

Commissioners emphasized prioritizing local artists and equitable distribution of funds. Several members said they favored using city money to support locally based projects and bring youth into the process, and they recommended retaining a consultant to guide youth‑led murals so projects are completed successfully. No formal funding allocations were made at the meeting; the subcommittee will present proposals to the full commission for recommendation to City Council.