SUBJECT
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Consideration for approval of Amendment No. 1 to the FY 2026 Public Art Annual Plan, with an increase in funding not to exceed $249,980.00 to include the Water Tower Art Project located at 8711 McPherson Road and FM 1472. This amendment aligns with scheduled Utilities maintenance and supports the vision outlined in Ordinance 2019-O-177, the Laredo Art Master Plan (LAMP), and the goals of the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by activating highly visible public spaces and strengthening Laredo’s civic identity. Funding will be available through the Public Art Fund utilizing the 2023 Certificates of Obligation Bond.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
Consideration to approve the Public Art Annual Plan was introduced to City Council on September 15, 2025 by Councilmember Dr. David Tyler King.
The Laredo Art Master Plan (LAMP) was presented to City Council on June 2, 2025. Ordinance 2019-O-177, establishing the Laredo Public Art Program and Fine Arts and Culture Commission, was passed by City Council on October 21, 2019.
City Council introduced this ordinance on October 7, 2019.
On August 19, 2019, City Council approved a motion to set aside two percent (2%) of the construction costs of eligible capital improvement projects for the Laredo Public Art Program.
BACKGROUND
The Public Art Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2026 was introduced to the Fine Arts and Culture Commission (FAACC) on June 26, 2025.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
• Goal 9.4: “Create vibrant community”
• Policy: 9.4.17: “Encourage art in public places and in businesses.”
• Goal 10.1: “Support the improvement of the Educational system of Laredo through coordination efforts across all agencies.”
• Goal 10.2: “Recognize local and regional arts and culture as the foremost indicator of the community’s unique identity and support its development to cultivate civic pride and identity and as an essential component to economic development and for attracting and retaining talent.”
• Policy: 10.2.1: “Establish a Commission on Arts and Culture. The Commission would help realize the goals of the Public Arts Plan.”
Summary of alignment:
The Public Art Annual Plan will serve as an integral role to promoting art in public places, business, and enhancing the vibrancy of Laredo.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Public Art Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2026 was discussed at the Fine Arts and Culture Commission (FAACC) meeting on October 16, 2025, and endorsed by FAACC, but the meeting did not meet quorum. The Public Art Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2026 was introduced to the Fine Arts and Culture Commission (FAACC) on June 26, 2025.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
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Staff support and recommend approval of amendment.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: Various Certificate of Obligations
Account #: N/A
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funding will be provided as contracts are awarded. No financial impact at this moment.