Which of the public art funding options does the Council wish to explore?
Public Art Commissioners Jennifer Longshore, Dana Bussell, David Wilkerson and Melissa Markell addressed the Council. Mr. Wilkerson stated both staff and the Public Arts Commission support Option #1, which outlines the following three components to generate funding for public art: 1) 1/10 of 1% Public Art Commercial Development Fee, 2) of 1% of Capital Improvement Projects over $25,000, and 3) 5% of tourism dollars generated from a potential increase to the TOT. Mr. Wilkerson stated this option would have the least impact on the City’s limited resources and spreads the responsibility for funding public art between residents and visitors. Mr. Wilkerson clarified their numbers were based on a 1% increase to the Transient Occupancy Tax and the Council might want to consider adjusting this, since they are now looking at a 2% increase. He acknowledged that there are many groups that will be vying for these funds. Councilor Hardesty voiced support for keeping the allocation at 5%. She stated
