SUBJECT
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Consideration to approve the Public Art Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2026. The plan aligns with Ordinance 2019-O-177, the Laredo Art Master Plan (LAMP) and the long-term goals of the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan. Projects will activate public spaces with accessible, inclusive, and locally inspired artwork, engage the community, ensure equitable distribution across the community, and prioritize the use of Certificates of Obligation (C.O.) bond funds in an estimated amount not to exceed $1,069,144. Funding will be available through the Public Art Fund.
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VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
• 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.”
• Policy 10.1.3: “Enter into partnerships with the school districts and the institutions of higher education to increase educational opportunities and improve student performance.”
• 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. While partnering with school districts and institutions of higher education, the plan provides creative learning, improves student performance, and offers hands-on opportunities to support workforce readiness through arts-integrated experiences.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
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.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Fine Arts and Culture Commission endorsed this plan at the June 26, 2025, meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 25-26
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Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: Click or tap here to enter text.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funding will be