HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-05-16 PRC Agenda PacketRegular Meeting on Wednesday, October 5, 2016 @ 5:30p.m., Council Chambers
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Whitener
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Greg Avakian, Susan Olson, Keri Schwab, Douglas Single, Rodney Thurman,
Susan Updegrove and Jeff Whitener
Public Comment Period. At this time, you may address the Commission on items that are not on the agenda but are of interest to the
public and within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Commission may not discuss or take
action on issues that are not on the agenda other than to briefly respond to statements made or questions raised, or to ask staff to follow
up on such issues.
PRC Meeting Agenda
1.Consideration of Minutes of Regular Meeting of September 7, 2016
2.Presentation: Impacts of the Drought on City Turf & 2016 Renovations (Jeff Hendricks, Parks
Maintenance Supervisor - 30 minutes)
3.Review and Recommend to Council Adoption of Proposed 2016 Box Art Project (Mudgett -
30 minutes).
4.Director’s Report (Stanwyck – 5 minutes)
5.Subcommittee Liaison Reports
Committee Liaison
Adult and Senior Programming Doug Single
Bicycle Advisory Susan Olson
City Facilities (Damon, golf, pool, joint use) Greg Avakian
Jack House Committee Susan Updegrove
Tree Committee Rodney Thurman
Youth Sports Association Keri Schwab
6.Communications
Adjourn to Special Meeting of October 14, 2016
Next Regular Meeting: November 2, 2016
APPEALS: Administrative decisions by the Parks and Recreation Commission may be appealed to the City Council in
accordance with the appeal procedure set forth in Chapter 1.20 of the San Luis Obispo Municipal Code.
The City of San Luis Obispo is committed to including the disabled in all of its services, programs, and activities.
Please contact the Clerk or staff liaison prior to the meeting if you require assistance.
Minutes - DRAFT
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
7 September, 2016
Regular Meeting of the Advisory Body Committee Commission
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order on the 7th day of
September, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California, by Chair Whitener.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Greg Avakian, Susan Olson, Keri Schwab, Douglas Single, Rodney Thurman,
Vice Chair Susan Updegrove and Chair Jeff Whitener
Absent: None
Staff: Parks and Recreation Director Shelly Stanwyck, Recreation Manager Melissa Mudgett,
Recreation Supervisors Doug Carscaden (Ranger), Devin Hyfield (Facilities) and Rich Ogden
(Sports), Associate Planner Rebecca Gershow, Consultant Dale Magee
PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Steve Davis, SLO resident, supports the sharing of the resources of public tennis court facilities at French
Park Tennis courts.
Bob Goldman, SLO resident, stated he is in support of multi-striping of tennis courts and that the
Commission should continue to support the sharing of resources.
Anita Smith, SLO resident, shared that she was unaware of the pending multi-striping of French Park
tennis courts for pickleball and provided to the Commission a petition from tennis players in opposition.
She is asking the Commission to reconsider its previous decision to restripe the tennis courts and keep the
Joanna Santiarse Memorial tennis court for tennis use only.
Bobbi Binder, SLO resident and president of SLO Pickleball Club, thanked the Commissioners for their
previous decision for sharing of current facilities. She asked the Commission when a dedicated,
tournament size, pickleball court might be considered. She added that the SLO Pickleball Ball could
work with the Parks and Recreation Department for fund-raising opportunities.
Bill Brown, Arroyo Grande resident and a professional tennis player said that public parks are the heart
and soul of tennis. He asked the Commission to not consider Sinsheimer Tennis Court for shared used
and expressed concerns about taking public tennis courts out of commission.
John Stocksdale, Shell Beach resident and SLO Pickleball Club Board Member, thanked the Commission
for its previous decision on sharing courts.
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DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 7, 2016 Page 2
Peggy Koteen, SLO resident and tennis player, asked the Commission to reconsider its decision restripe
the French Park tennis court. She expressed that survey data used was incomplete and not expressive of
the actual court use by tennis players at this location.
Jean Hyduchak, SLO resident and ambassador for USPA, reiterated that pickleball has been working with
the City for the past 2 years for shared court resources. She shared information about other pickleball
clubs and programming county-wide and added that the sport is gaining popularity.
Craig Levin, SLO resident and both a tennis and pickleball player, asked the Commission to support
dedicated pickleball court facilities. He asked the Commission to consider converting one tennis court for
pickleball at Sinshiemer.
Vicente Del Rio, SLO resident, asked the Commission to consider all sports and provide dedicated
facilities. He does not prefer sharing facilities with pickleball because pickleball is a loud sport.
Sallie Brooks-Schulke, SLO resident, shared use means six hours a week but not use at the same time.
Gary Zanini, SLO resident, said an unofficial survey noted an average of 11-15 tennis players weekly and
there are approximately 125 pickleball that could play weekly if allowed shared use.
Frank Collie, SLO resident, voiced opposition for multi-court striping at French Park. He added that the
court location is special because it is a solitary, fenced court which is great for individual instruction
without disruption to others. He asked the Commission to consider pickleball multi-use on the various
volleyball courts or the School District’s old Jr. High tennis courts.
John Hyduchack, SLO resident, acknowledged that shared use on tennis courts is not ideal but it is great
compromise for both sports with limited resources.
Scott Cleere, SLO resident and tennis player, supports the future lighting capital project at Sinsheimer
tennis courts in 2018-19. He also recommended considering pickleball courts at Emerson Park.
Chair Whitener reiterated that the Commission cannot take action or discuss items not on the agenda. He
added that the Commission’s intent was to support shared use of public facilities not to convert existing
tennis courts. He urged the public to share their concerns for more pickleball and tennis facilities to the
City Council.
Director Stanwyck reminded the Commission and the public present in the audience about the City’s 2-
year Financial Process, the numerous opportunities for public input, and encouraged all the participate.
PRESENTATIONS, INTRODUCTIONS, APPOINTMENTS
Presentation of Leadership SLO (Class 24) Water Wise Demonstration Garden by Rebecca Gershow and
Andy Greensfelder. Each leadership class has a legacy project intended to enhance a service or provide a
community benefit. The demonstration garden is proposed on city property on the lawn area outside of
the SLO Little Theater. The proposed plan will use drought tolerant plantings, educational signage, and
have a meandering path around the public art piece “BeeBee Works His Magic” which is a memorial to
Bill Beeson and his community support of the arts.
Commission Comments followed:
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DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 7, 2016 Page 3
Commissioner’s Single and Commissioner Avakian asked about additional garden seating or use of
proposed boulders for seating.
Commissioner Thurman asked about funding. Mr. Greensfelder responded that all funding is the
responsibility of the Leadership SLO class. A significant amount of demolition was provided by the
California Conversation Corp volunteers.
Commissioner Olson asked about garden lighting. Mrs. Gershow responded that the public art piece has
lighting.
By consensus, the Parks and Recreation Commission was in support of the Leadership SLO
demonstration garden design and location as presented.
CONSENT AGENDA AND CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
ACTION: APPROVE THE MEETING MINUTES OF AUGUST 3, 2016 AS AMENDED BY
COMMITTEE MEMBER SINGLE, SECOND BY VICE CHAIR UPDEGROVE.
1.Consideration of Minutes
CARRIED 7:0:0:0 to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Body for the
meeting of 08/03/2016.
AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, SCHWAB, SINGLE, THURMAN, UPDEGROVE, WHITENER
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND BUSINESS ITEMS
2.Selection of Wes Conner Awardee for 2016
Director Stanwyck shared with the Commission the background for the annual Wes Conner
award and nominations. Director Stanwyck spoke about the late Wes Conner, who was a
devoted, civic-minded volunteer for the City of San Luis Obispo and an avid supporter of all
things parks and recreation. Director Stanwyck explained the selection criteria for the
Commission and read the list of previous award recipients and nominees for consideration.
ACTION: THE COMMITTEE BY CONSENSUS voted to approve Herb Fillaponi as the
recipient of the 2016 Wes Conner Award.
Motion passed 7:0:0:0 on the following roll call vote:
AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, SCHWAB, SINGLE, THURMAN, UPDEGROVE, WHITENER
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
3.Selection of Date and Approval of Route for Annual Park Tour
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DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 7, 2016 Page 4
Director Stanwyck recommended the Commission consider a park tour date and locations to
visit. The Commission considered a Friday in October and potential park tour routes to include
Santa Rosa Park, Laguna Lake Golf Course, Meadow Park, French Park, Sinsheimer Park and
the Jack House.
ACTION: THE COMMITTEE BY CONSENSUS voted to approve Friday, October 14th for
the 2016 Annual Parks Tour to include the above route.
Motion passed 7:0:0:0 on the following roll call vote:
AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, SCHWAB, SINGLE, THURMAN, UPDEGROVE, WHITENER
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
4.Review and Recommend to City Council Adoption of the 2020 Parks and Recreation
Department Strategic Plan
ACTION: RECEIVE INFORMATION, PROVIDE FEEDBACK AND RECOMMEND
COUNCIL ADOPTION
Staff shared an updated about the Department’s Strategic Planning process which began
October 2015 when the Parks and Recreation Department, in consultation with strategic
planning professional, Dale Magee of Catalyst Consulting, embarked on the creation of its first
strategic plan. Director Stanwyck noted that it is a City of San Luis Obispo best pra ctice for its
Departments to have strategic plans. The priority and focus for Parks and Recreation is
summarized in its mission statement. The City of San Luis Obispo Parks and Recreation
Department inspires happiness by creating community through People, Parks, Programs, and
Open Space. How this can best be accomplished over the next four years is now articulated in
the vision and strategic elements of the proposed 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan.
The extensive public engagement process in seeking input for the strategic plan was
summarized. The goals and objectives of the Strategic Plan to meet the future needs and
expectations of the community using the plan as a roadmap were presented. The Commission’s
recommendation is scheduled to be considered by Council in November. Upon approval by
Council, staff will begin the crucial and immediate steps needed to accomplish the plan . Staff
will return to the Commission and Council with progress reports on the Plan.
Commission Comments followed.
Commissioners Olson and Single asked about a financial component to the plan. Director
Stanwyck responded that the plan is a vision document and intended guide staff in setting goals
consistent with the vision and the financial commitment to meet these objectives.
Commissioner Olson asked about the “Maximize This!” committee as referenced in the plan.
Consultant Dale Magee responded that it is an internal group that looks at ongoing process
improvements to ensure the most efficient processes are employed.
Commissioner Schwab asked for clarification on what ‘Manage risk associ ated with recreation
facilities” meant. Director Stanwyck responded that this objective is a result of the City being a
self-insured city and this objective gives license to staff to take a proactive approach identifying
and limiting the city’s exposure to risk. Commissioner Schwab asked about the City’s
volunteer program. Director Stanwyck shared that the City has significant training for
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DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 7, 2016 Page 5
volunteers in various City programs. She added that an AmeriCorp volunteer will be working
with the City for the next year to help in developing the city-wide volunteer program.
Commissioner Thurman was in support of the Parks and Recreation Department modeling
healthy work habits and work-life balance for the City. He continued that he was also in
support for greater interactivity with the City’s website and optimization of social media.
Chair Whitener asked about implementation of the plan. Director Stanwyck said the plan will
be driven by priorities as defined by City Council and the City’s Financial planning process.
Chair Whitener asked the Commission to strongly consider advocating for new recreational
public facilities.
Public Comments:
None
ACTION: RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT THE PARKS AND
RECREATION DEPARTMENT’S STRATEGIC PLAN AS MOTIONED BY COMMITTEE
MEMBER UPDEGROVE, SECOND BY COMMITTEE MEMBER SINGLE.
Motion passed 7:0:0:0 on the following roll call vote:
AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, SCHWAB, SINGLE, THURMAN, UPDEGROVE, WHITENER
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
COMMITTEE COMMUNICATIONS
Director’s Report
Director Stanwyck provided a brief overview of current Parks and Recreation programming.
Box Art Jury recommendation of new designs – Advisory Body Reviews in Sept/October
There is a wait lists for every school! We are at capacity for all after school youth
programs.
We are currently hiring teachers and lifeguards.
The Family Overnight Camp Out in Laguna Lake Park was a success with over 75
people!
The Skate Park Ramp n’ Roll on 8/20 was a fun & educational event promoting safety.
A reminder for Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on 9/22 at Jack House.
The first ever September Scramble Kid Adventure obstacle course at the Golf Course on
9/24
The Bike Rodeo will be at Hawthorne Elementary School on 10/1
Rangers are working on completing the M Loop trail
Commission Communications
LIAISON REPORTS
Adult and Senior Programming: Commissioner Single said adult softball fall started last
week and are playing 71teams this fall, Mondays to Thursday. Pickleball plays at
Meadow Park on Mon/Wed/Fri from 9am-11:30, French Park on Tues/Thursday 9am-
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DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 7, 2016 Page 6
11:30 and Ludwick Community Center on Wednesdays 12-2pm. Boomer Softball is
provided on a drop-in basis on Tuesdays at Santa Rosa at 11am.
Bicycle Advisory Committee: Commissioner Olson said the BAC does not meet until
October. No Report.
City Facilities (Damon Garcia, Golf, Pool & Joint Use Facilities): Commissioner
Avakian said that Damon Garcia field is already in poor condition with only one month
in use. The Rugby tournament was held this last weekend and AYSO soccer has begun
its season. The City/County library will be undergoing construction. Fields will begin to
close for annual maintenance September to March starting with Sinsheimer fields. Golf
Course rounds were up in August. Children’s attendance at golf course increased with
kids play free Saturdays. Cuesta classes are held on Fridays, and the teen golf group on
Wednesdays. “First Tee” program begins in September. Night Golf is back starting
September 16th.
Jack House Committee: Vice Chair Updegrove reported that the Jack House Committee
is working on a strategic plan. Art-after-Dark is the 1st Friday of the month and will be
continuing throughout this year.
Tree Committee: Commissioner Thurman shared that the tree committee meeting was
inundated with tree removal requests.
Youth Sports: Commissioner Schwab said there was no YSA meeting. No Report.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:06 p.m. The next Regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation
Commission is scheduled for 05, October, 2016 at 5:30 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 990 Palm
Street, San Luis Obispo, California.
APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION: 10/05/2016
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City of San Luis Obispo, Council Agenda Report, Meeting Date, Item Number
Parks and Recreation Commission
Agenda Report
DATE: October 5, 2016
FROM: Shelly Stanwyck, Parks and Recreation Director
Prepared By: Melissa C. Mudgett, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: REVIEW OF THE PUBLIC ART DESIGNS AND LOCATIONS PROPOSED
FOR THE 2016 UTILITY BOX ART PROJECT OT PAINT CITY-OWNED
UTILITY BOXES.
RECOMMENDATION
As Recommended by the Architectural Review Commission and Cultural Heritage Committee,
recommend to Council that it approve the artwork designs and traffic signal locations for the 2016
Utility Box Art project as consistent with the adopted Guidelines for Public Art.
DISCUSSION
Background
Initially conceived as a program to discourage and abate graffiti and to enhance unattractive
utility/traffic signal boxes at various high visibility intersections in the
Downtown core, the Utility Box Art Program received funding from the City
Council in 2010 for sixteen downtown utility boxes. Widespread popularity of
the box art program enabled the pilot program to expand. A second phase of
utility box art was rolled out in 2012, adding seventeen more utility boxes to the
program. Currently, the Utility Box Art Program has thirty-three (33) painted
boxes throughout the City. A map of current box art locations provided as Attachment 1.
On July 19, 2016 the City Council amended the public art policy for the Utility Box Art program
to add maintenance, define the duration of mural exhibits, expand the program and provide
direction for future archival of box art murals.
Expansion of Utility Box Art Program
The City owns and operates a total of sixty-five (65) traffic signal utility boxes, of which 32 are
eligible for new art murals. Consistent with the City’s adopted Public Engagement and Notification
(PEN) Manual, a unique public engagement voting opportunity was employed to seek community
input for prioritizing the boxes for future painting phases. “Vote for me” signage on the remaining
blank traffic signal box locations was utilized. The number of votes a box received, in addition to
its evaluation following approved criteria (maintenance needs, high public areas, exposure to
graffiti, proximity to other public art, etc.), was used to develop a priority list for the order of the
remaining blank city traffic signal boxes to be painted (Attachment 2). It is anticipated that the
painting of these new utility boxes could occur in phases over the next three to seven years, as
public art funding is available.
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2016 BOX ART PROJECT Page 2
Box Art Selection Jury
On August 31, 2016, a Box Art Selection Jury, consisting of various community members, convened
to review all box art design proposals and present its proposed selection to the appropriate City
Advisory Bodies. The 2016 Box Art Selection Jury included fourteen (14) members who are arts
advocates, professional artists, advisory body representatives, local business owners, an educator,
historians, community members, and representatives from the Downtown Association and the
Chamber of Commerce. The Art Jury reviewed 89 design proposals submitted by local artists and
compared these designs for artistic excellence and appropriateness to the location. The 2016 Box Art
Jury group roster is provided as Attachment 3.
Proposed 2016 Box Art Project
The 2016 Box Art Project, as proposed by the Box Art Selection Jury, would enhance a total of
eleven (11) city-owned utility/traffic control boxes at various locations throughout the community.
This includes six (6) new locations for art on blank unpainted utility boxes, four (4) locations
identified as needing significant mural repairs and one (1) downtown location which will be impacted
with future reconstruction of the intersection and be replaced with a new utility box. These locations
are listed as BAND 1 in the Utility Box Prioritization List (Attachment 2) and also identified in
Attachment 4 as proposed Box Art designs and locations. These locations are also summarized in the
table below.
Table 1: 2016 Box Art Project Proposes 11 Box Art Locations:
* New design by Elizabeth Hudson proposed by the Art Jury for Box #6 location on Broad & Pismo
Intersection Reconstruction and Relocation of Box Art
The intersection of Osos and Monterey is scheduled to receive significant infrastructure upgrades and
reconstruction in the late fall/early winter. As part of construction efforts, the current signal box will
be replaced with a new, larger signal cabinet. The recently updated Box Art
program policy articulates how box art murals that are located on signal cabinets
will be preserved in the event the signal cabinet is removed entirely from the
City’s traffic signal system. The physical signal cabinet with the artwork could
be relocated to other city parks, community gardens or pathways to remain on
public display.
While considering the possible relocation of this signal cabinet (Box Art #30), it
was determined by City Traffic Signal staff that the signal cabinet is still in
6 New Locations
•Foothill & Patricia (Box #36)
•Foothill & Chorro & Broad
(Box #34)
•Marsh & Higuera (Box #43)
•Madonna & Oceanaire (Box
#46)
•Johnson & Lizzie (Box #39)
•Broad & Orcutt (Box #59)
4 Repaired Locations
•South Street & S. Higuera
(Box #12)
•S. Higuera & Madonna (Box
#24)
•Broad & Pismo (Box #6)*
•Broad & Buchon (Box #25)
1 Reconstruction &
Relocation
•Osos & Monterey (Box #30)
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2016 BOX ART PROJECT Page 3
working order and in fact, an increasingly rare piece of signal equipment that could be immediately
used as stand-by equipment for when unscheduled repairs or replacement is necessary. At this time,
the current signal cabinet has been determined to still be in prime working condition. It is the
recommendation of City staff to return the signal cabinet (with its exterior box art mural) to the
equipment “inventory” in the Traffic Signals division for use as a future replacement box when
needed.
CONCURRENCE
The Architectural Review Commission (Attachment 5) and Cultural Heritage Committee
(Attachment 6) have reviewed the proposed designs and locations at their respective public
meetings on September 19, 2016 and September 26, 2016. The City’s Advisory Bodies concur
with the Art Jury’s recommendation of proposed designs and locations for the 2016 Box Art
Project as consistent with the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines and adopted Guidelines
for Public Art.
Next Steps
The Parks and Recreation’s recommendation will be forwarded onto the City Council for its
consideration on October 18, 2016. Upon Council’s adoption, the 2016 Box Art Project will
prepare the utility boxes for the new art murals with cleaning and priming. It is anticipated that
the artists could be out in the community painting the new utility boxes as early as November
2016.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Box Art Map
2.Box Art Priority List
3.Box Art Jury Group Roster
4.Proposed 2016 Box Art Locations
5.ARC Report, September 19, 2016
6.CHC Report, September 26, 2016
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guide mapSan Luis ObispoCity ofLook for it...Box Art Round 1Box Art Round 2Attachment 1
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30
Box 13&14 were completed as a team with
Marcie Hawthorne (above).
Julie Frankel’s background is in graphic
design and mixed media painting. Julie
is an east coast transplant, living in SLO
since 1988. In her art she often explores
the themes of people watching and
narrative spaces. Julie is also a maker of
artists’ books—which combines both art
and design skill sets. Patterns, stencils,
and textures are one of her passions.
On the design side, Julie worked as an
independent consultant with Biesek
Design on many projects for the National
Park Service.
Abbey Onikoyi
Jeff takes great pleasure in drinking
Thai iced tea, eating chocolate donuts,
and reading a good book.
Jeff Claassen
Charlie Clingman was raised in spacious
rural settings which had animals to play
with and horses to ride. This planted
the seed for his future exploration and
appreciation of nature. He fi nds that 25
years of international surfi ng experience
has not only been a great thrill and good
exercise but a fi ne way to observe the
water and surrounding landscapes. He
seeks to have his paintings represent the
beauty and action he encounters.
Charlie Clingman
Marcie Hawthorne
Julie Frankel
Abbey Onikoyi, a native of Nigeria,
grew up in a family that was one of the
founding royal families of Lagos, with
a tradition rooted in arts and culture.
His goal is to impact humanity with “a
whole new love” through art, music and
communication. He now resides in San
Luis Obispo, where he owns “Spirits of
Africa” Gallery at the Creamery.
An artist and a dreamer by nature, Alister
Dippner has exploded onto the California
art scene in a big way, from creating
album artwork for a number of
up-and-coming bands and musicians to
showcasing his work in over 35 galleries
and art shows. His over active
imagination lead him to become a
professional muralist for two years
before moving to SLO.
Alister Dippner
Rachel LaBonte is a graduating senior
at Cal Poly, studying Fine Art with a
concentration in studio art. She focuses
primarily on painting and drawing, and is
interested in both fi guration and
abstraction. Mediation and its
relationship to reality and humanity have
been central to her most recent body
of work. She hopes to attend graduate
school in the fall, and is planning on
pursuing a career in the fi eld of Painting.
Rachel LaBonte
Jed is a native of California. He has been
drawing and painting since he was fi ve
years old. He attended the San Francisco
Art Institute and Cal State Hayward. He
is currently a freelance designer and
resides in Templeton with his wife and
several stray cats.
Jed Joyce
Justin grew up on the Central Coast
where he attended Cuesta College
before receiving a Bachelor of Art in Art
Studio from UC Santa Barbara. He now
resides in SLO with his wife Heather
and their two sons, Jude and Liam.
Justin works in various media although
prefers oils. The local landscape plays an
important role in his art.
Justin Johnson
15
16
18
20
19
22Joe has over 20 years of experience
creating commissioned murals and
fi ne art paintings for fi lm, television,
hotels, restaurants and residences
internationally. Whether working on
personal paintings or commissioned
murals, he approaches each with an
open mind, a knowledge of art history
and an array of stylistic techniques.
Joe Bachelor1
2
3
13
12
114
5
6
Marcia is a longtime resident of
San Luis Obispo County. Growing up in
the beautiful Carrizo Plains, and painting
currently in her studio in Creston’s
glowing oak woodlands, her work
is guided by the color and light of
landscape. Her paintings hang in the
County Government Center, Compact
Gallery in San Luis Obispo and Firefl y in
Paso Robles.
Marcia Harvey
9
7
Carol feels lucky to live in Baywood
between the ancient, breathing estuary
and the hills with rocks for bones.
Surrounded by inspiration, this county
has been her home since childhood. Here
she has raised her family, adventured,
wore out a few good dogs, made a
lot of art and friends. “I love it all,
absorbing, living, making art, family and
community.”
Carol Paulsen
Chris Pedersen grew up on the Central
Coast of California. He explored his beau-
tiful surroundings and discovered his
drawing talent and creative imagination.
His art career started with a concentra-
tion of illustration and graphic design.
Currently Chris is making fi ne canvas oil
paintings while he continues to develop
illustrations for a children’s book story,
which will likely inspire the youth to no
end. Chris has maintained the youthful
fantasy aspect of possibility.
Chris Pedersen
A SLO native, Jane grew-up with the
old growth oaks. With big dreams, she
left for her bachelor’s in International
Relations, before reluctantly returning.
Four years later, she’s made her home
anew. When not painting, riding her pink
bike, or pretending to save the world,
she works as a counselor and advocate
at the SARP Center.
Jane Pomeroy
Formerly from Southern California,
Lena Rushing has called the Central
Coast home for 16 years. She is best
known for her large scale, acrylic, fi gure
paintings. Honest and authentic, her
intent is to create vibrant, intriguing
works of art that encourage the viewer
to engage in art related dialogue.
She would describe her paintings as a
marriage between fi gurative
expressionism and surrealism.
Lena Rushing
23
27
28
26
Colleen is an artist and surfer in Central
California. Colleen taught herself to paint
and went on to study art overseas, at the
L‘Accademia di Belle Arti, an art school
founded by Michelangelo in Florence.
Shortly after graduation from UC Santa
Cruz, she moved to Hawaii and began
work as a muralist for various Waikiki
hotels, restaurants, theatres and set
companies. Colleen returned to Shell
Beach, where she works as a studio artist
and muralist, creating works inspired by
her love of the ocean.
Colleen Gnos
Samantha is currently working as a
designer for Stephen Patrick Design in
San Luis Obispo. Her passion is art and
design. Samantha’s love for art began as
a child. Her favorite pastime is to draw.
In college, she started as an art major;
then found herself switching to
Interior Design.
Samantha Pereira
Lynn is an active member of the
Downtown Association’s Design Com-
mittee and the Downtown Foresters.
She works and travels extensively as a
decorative artist for local art company
Douglas Bouman and Associates. In
conjunction with that company, she
recently completed a recreation of the
historic entrance to the Coconut Grove
Hollywood for the Ambassador Project
in Los Angeles.
Lynn Hessler
Robert was born and raised in Santo
Domingo, Dominican Republic. At age 16,
he enrolled in the Academy of Fine Arts
in Santo Domingo, where he spent fi ve
years perfecting his craft. After
completing his studies, Robert became
the offi cial muralist of the Dominican
Presidency. In 2001, Robert moved to
Madrid, Spain in order to pursue his
career as an international artist. Robert
now resides on the Central Coast taking
in the warm sunshine and beautiful
landscapes.
Robert MAJA
Amy McKay has been enjoying the SLO
life since 1995, when she came to
Cal Poly for her degree in landscape
architecture. Art has always been her
fi rst love though, and SLO has been
both a supportive and inspirational
environment for her artistic pursuits.
She is thrilled to be a part of the Box Art
project for the second time and feels
grateful every day to be able to share her
art with others. As often as possible, she
can be found painting in her sunny home
studio at the base of Cerro San Luis.
Amy McKay
joey Salazar
joey Salazar was born on the California
Central Coast. She has traveled many
times to New York and South America
to observe and study art, as well as to
gain inspiration. Along her life’s path
joey has worked with many mediums
including, but not limited to, acrylics,
aerosol, photo collage, water and air.
Her work often expresses her feminine
compassion, wisdom and strength which
she hopes to share with others.
California based stencil artist
STENZSKULL, layers grey tones and
colors with stencils to conjure amazing
portraits and fun concepts. 8 years deep
in his stencil medium he is constantly
evolving and refi ning his artistic style.
Hours and hours put in to design and
hand cutting stencils are surely worth
the fi nal product.
STENZSKULL
Ryan Williams was born in Arlington
Heights, IL. in 1973 and currently lives
and works in San Luis Obispo, CA. He
received his BFA from Cal Poly in 2012,
graduating Magna Cum Laude. His
future goals include obtaining his MFA.
In the meantime, Ryan’s eff orts are set
on developing community and maintain-
ing his daily art practice. This is Ryan’s
second time participating in the Box Art
project/competition.
Ryan Williams
Marcie is a San Luis Obispo artist
who has been working as a muralist,
gardening/natural history book illustrator
and plein air painter for thirty years.
She has earned an academic degree in
Biology from Duke University, a fi ne arts
degree from California College of Arts
and Crafts and has also received
additional training in medical and
biological illustration at Duke Medical
School. Marcie has combined a love of
nature and art in a unique way with her
residential and public art mural painting.
10
14 21
24
25
31
32
8
17
29 Blair Rusin
Blair has since experienced life in most
parts of the world. A world that he loves
and works to save, in his artwork and in
his respect for nature. His artistic talent
has been fueled by the beauty found in
the mountains, the oceans and world
cultures. His dreams fi ll in the missing
pieces. As a snowboarder he has been
able to travel the world to discover and
embrace all elements of beauty and
nature. These experiences and
relationships have been a great tool in
leading him to explore all diversities of
his passions.
Box Art Round 1
Box Art Round 2
| THE PROJECT
The City of San Luis Obispo invited artists residing in San Luis Obispo,
Santa Barbara and Monterey counties to apply for a public art proj-
ect to create art on 32 utility boxes located throughout San Luis
Obispo. The goal of the project is to use utility boxes as “canvases”
for original pieces of art as well as contribute to the vitality and at-
tractiveness of the downtown while deterring graffi ti. Not only will
this project improve the “curb appeal” of one of the most attractive,
interesting and economically vibrant downtowns in America, but it
will also give artists an opportunity to add their personal touch to the
City’s public art collection.
| MORE INFORMATION
www.slopublicart.com
City of San Luis Obispo | 805.781.7300
completed October 2010
GUIDE MAP ON BACK
3-5
Attachment 1
Signal Location No.Intersection Description Priority No.
12 SOUTH & S. HIGUERA REPAIR
24 S. HIGUERA & MADONNA REPAIR
25 BUCHON & BROAD REPAIR
6 BROAD & PISMO REPAIR
30 OSOS & MONTEREY REPLACE
39 JOHNSON & LIZZIE 1
36 PATRICIA & FOOTHILL 2
43 MARSH & SOUTH HIGUERA 3
46 MADONNA & OCEANAIRE 4
59 BROAD & ORCUTT 5
34 FOOTHILL & CHORRO & BROAD 6
61 BROAD & TANK FARM 7
54 SOUTH HIGUERA & LOS OSOS VALLEY 8
41 JOHNSON & LAUREL 9
64 MILL & CALIFORNIA 10
35 TASSAJARA & FOOTHILL 11
47 MADONNA & LOS OSOS VALLEY 12
52 PRADO & SOUTH HIGUERA 13
62 BROAD & AERO 14
53 SOUTH HIGUERA & TANK FARM 15
37 SOUTH HIGUERA & SUBURBAN 16
50 LOS OSOS VALLEY & DESCANSO 17
40 BISHOP & JOHNSON 18
42 SOUTH HIGUERA & HIGH & PISMO 19
49 LOS OSOS VALLEY & LAGUNA LANE 20
58 ORCUTT & LAUREL 21
38 SAN LUIS DRIVE & JOHNSON 22
45 MADONNA & DALIDIO 23
60 BROAD & INDUSTRIAL 24
65 LOS OSOS VALLEY & FROOM 25
57 JOHNSON & ELLA 26
55 LOS OSOS VALLEY & CALLE JOAQUIN 27
51 MARGARITA & SOUTH HIGUERA 28
48 LOS OSOS VALLEY & ROYAL WAY 29
56 SOUTH HIGUERA & GRANADA 30
44 MADONNA & EL MERCADO 31
63 MIND BODY & TANK FARM 32BAND THREE (13) CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO UTILITY BOX ART PROGRAM
PRIORITY PAINTING ORDER & RANKING LIST
BAND ONE (11) (6 new + 5 Repair/Replace)BAND TWO (13) Attachment 2
3-6
City of San Luis Obispo, Parks and Recreation, 1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401-3934, 805.781.7300, slocity.org
2016 BOX ART SELECTION JURY
Group List
Name Representative
1.Steve Akers Bike SLO County, SLO Resident
2.Sandy Baer SLO History Center, Cultural Heritage Committee
Representative
3.Jamie Bell Land Conservancy
4.Kiersten Demmon Arts Education Teacher, SLO Resident
5.Aaron Gomez Local Business Owner, SLO Resident, Chamber Economic
Vitality Committee Representative
6.Cindy Lambert SLO History Center, SLO Resident
7.Ken McGavin Local Business Owner
8.Charlene Rosales SLO Chamber of Commerce, Governmental Affairs
9.Carol Paquet Artist, Arts Director
10.Allen Root Local Artist, Arts Advocate, Architectural Review
Commission Representative
11.Angela Soll SLO Resident, Architectural Review Commission
Representative
12.Nicki Sucec Local Artist
13.Brent Vanderhoof Downtown Association Representative
14.Chris Woods City Staff, SLO Resident
Facilitated by the City of San Luis Obispo Public Art Manager, Melissa Mudgett
3-7
Attachment 3
September 6, 2016
2016
UTILITY BOX ART
PROJECT
BOX ART DESIGNS &POTENTIAL CITY
LOCATIONS,AS PROPOSED BY THE ART
JURY SELECTION GROUP,FOR ADVISORY
BODY AND CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
AND APPROVAL
Attachment 4
3-8
Map of
Proposed*
2016 Box
Art Project
Locations
*As proposed by the Box Art
Jury Selection Group on August
31, 2016
3-9
Proposed 2016 Box Art Locations
6
NEW
Locations
4
REPAIRED
Locations
1
UPGRADED
Utility Box
11
BOX ART
MURALS
3-10
Location #36 –Patricia @ Foothill
NEW -PROPOSED
“SLO Many Cows” –Elena Aker
#1 3-11
Location #34 –Foothill & Chorro & Broad
NEW -PROPOSED
“Sweet and Low” –Bret Brown
#2 3-12
Location #46 –Madonna @ Oceanaire
NEW -PROPOSED
“Once Upon a Dream” –Alister Dippner
#3 3-13
Location #43 –Marsh @ Higuera
NEW PROPOSED
“Celebrate SLO” –Nate Erlin
#4 3-14
Location #39 –Johnson @ Lizzie
NEW -PROPOSED
“Naturally Beautiful” –Laura Lozano
#5 3-15
Location #59 –Broad @ Orcutt
NEW -PROPOSED
“Robot” –Heidi Kruger
#6 3-16
Location #30 –Osos @ Monterey
SIGNAL REPLACEMENT
“Love of Color” –Sara Burke
#7 3-17
Location #6 –Broad @ Pismo
BOX MODIFICATION REPAIR
“Jacaranda Deco” –Elizabeth Hudson
#8 3-18
Location #12 –South @ Higuera
BOX MODIFICATION REPAIR
“Signature Birds of San Luis Obispo County” –
Marcie Hawthorne
#9 3-19
Location #24 –Higuera @ Madonna
BOX MODIFICATION REPAIR
“Pismo” –Chris Pederson
#10 3-20
Location #25 –Buchon @ Broad
BOX MODIFICATION REPAIR
“Roots, Rocks, Right and Left” –Chris Pederson
#11 3-21
NEXT STEPS FOR BOX ART
•Architectural Review Commission (ARC)
9/19/16* at 5:00pm Council Hearing Room
•Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) 9/26/16*
5:30pm Council Hearing Room
•Parks & Recreation Commission (PRC)
10/5/16* at 5:30pm Council Chambers
Advisory
Body
Reviews
•City Council Review and Approval of
Recommended box art designs & locations
•October 18, 2016*
•6:00pm -Council Chambers
City Council
Approval
•Prime, Paint & Prepare Utility Boxes
•Artist Orientation Meeting
•2016 BOX ART PAINTING: Tentatively
Scheduled for November 7-18, 2016* (2 Week
Period)
Box Art
Painting
Note: Updated information and schedules will be provided on the City’s Website at:
http://www.slocity.org/government/department -directory/parks-and-recreation/public-art/box-art-
program
*Public
Meeting
Dates as
listed here
are tentative
and may be
subject to
change
3-22
QUESTIONS?
Melissa Mudgett
Recreation Department & Public Art Program Manager
Parks & Recreation
Administration
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E mmudgett@slocity.org
T 805.781.7296
slocity.org
3-23
Architectural Review Commission Agenda Report
SUBJECT: Review of a public art designs and locations proposed for the 2016 Utility Box Art
project to paint city-owned utility boxes.
PROJECT ADDRESS: Various City Right-of-Way BY: Melissa Mudgett, Parks and
Recreation Manager, Public Art
Program
Phone Number: 805-781-7296
E-mail: mmudgett@slocity.org
FILE NUMBER: ARC-PA XX-16 FROM: Tyler Corey, Housing
Programs Manager
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to Council that it approve the artwork designs and traffic
signal locations for the 2016 Utility Box Art project as consistent with the adopted Guidelines for
Public Art.
SITE DATA
Applicant City of San Luis Obispo
Representative Melissa Mudgett, Parks &
Recreation Department
Zoning Public Right-of-Way (ROW)
General Plan Public Property, Public Art
Site Area Approx. XX acres
Environmental
Status
Categorically Exempt under
Class 1, Existing Facilities,
CEQA Guidelines 15601(b)(3)
1.0 SUMMARY
1.1 Utility Box Art Program History
Initially conceived as a program to discourage and abate graffiti and to enhance unattractive
utility/traffic signal boxes at various high visibility intersections in the Downtown core, the Utility
Box Art Program received funding from the City Council in 2010 for sixteen downtown utility
boxes. Widespread popularity of the box art program enabled the pilot program to expand. A
second phase of utility box art was rolled out in 2012, adding seventeen more utility boxes to the
program. Currently, the Utility Box Art Program has thirty-three (33) painted boxes throughout
the City (Map of current box art locations provided as Attachment 1).
Meeting Date: Sept. 9, 2016
Item Number:
Attachment 5
3-24
In March 2015, the City Council approved updates to the City’s Public Art Policy to include the
Utility Box Art pilot program as an ongoing temporary public art project within the City’s Public
Art Program. While conducting the public outreach and engagement for the 2016 Box Art
Repainting project, the community provided Council with input and recommended additional
amendments to the public art policy for the Box Art Program. On July 19, 2016 the City Council
adopted these amendments into the public art policy for the Utility Box Art program which
addressed maintenance, duration of mural exhibits, expansion of the program and archival of the
box art murals. (Attachment 2)
1.2 Expansion of Utility Box Art Program
Currently, the City of San Luis Obispo owns and operates a total of
sixty-five (65) traffic signal utility boxes. Of this amount, 32 are
available for new art murals. Consistent with the City’s adopted Public
Engagement and Notification (PEN) Manual, a unique public
engagement voting opportunity was employed to seek community input
for prioritizing the boxes for future painting phases. “Vote for me”
signage on the remaining blank traffic signal box locations was utilized.
The number of votes a box received, in addition to its evaluation
following approved criteria (maintenance needs, high public areas,
exposure to graffiti, proximity to other public art, etc.), was used to
develop a priority list for the order of the remaining blank city traffic signal boxes to be painted.
(Attachment 3) It is anticipated that the painting of these new utility boxes could occur in phases
over the next three to seven years, as public art funding is available.
2.0 COMMISSION’S PURVIEW
The Architectural Review Commission’s (ARC) purview with the proposed 2016 Box Art Project
is to review the proposed designs and locations for consistency with the City’s adopted Guidelines
for Public Art.
3.0 PROJECT INFORMATION
3.1 Site Description
The 2016 Box Art Project, as proposed by the Box Art Selection Jury, would enhance a total of
eleven (11) city-owned utility/traffic control boxes at various locations throughout the community.
This includes six (6) new locations for art on blank unpainted utility boxes, four (4) locations
identified as needing significant mural repairs and one (1) downtown location which will be impacted
with future reconstruction of the intersection and be replaced with a new utility box. (Map of
proposed locations Attachment 4)
3.2 Project Description
On August 31, 2016, a Box Art Selection Jury, consisting of various community members, convened
to review all box art design proposals and present its proposed selection to the appropriate City
Advisory Bodies. The 2016 Box Art Selection Jury included fourteen (14) members who are arts
advocates, professional artists, advisory body representatives, local business owners, an educator,
3-25
historians, community members, and representatives from the Downtown Association and the
Chamber of Commerce. The 2016 Box Art Jury group roster is provided as Attachment 5.
The Art Jury reviewed 89 design proposals submitted by local artists and compared these designs for
artistic excellence and appropriateness to the location. The Art Jury is recommending approval of
both new and repaired box artwork designs at eleven (11) city-owned utility/traffic control boxes at
various locations throughout the community. These locations are summarized in the table below.
2016 Box Art Project Proposes 11 Box Art Locations:
* New design by Elizabeth Hudson proposed by the Art Jury for Box #6 location on Broad & Pismo
Intersection Reconstruction and Relocation of Box Art
The intersection of Osos and Monterey is scheduled to receive significant infrastructure upgrades and
reconstruction in the late fall/early winter. As part of construction efforts, the current signal box will
be replaced with a new, larger signal cabinet. The recently updated Box Art program policy
articulates how box art murals that are located on signal cabinets will be preserved in the event the
signal cabinet is removed entirely from the City’s traffic signal system. The
physical signal cabinet with the artwork could be relocated to other city parks,
community gardens or pathways to remain on public display.
While considering the possible relocation of this signal cabinet (Box Art #30), it
was determined by City Traffic Signal staff that the signal cabinet is still in
working order and in fact, an increasingly rare piece of signal equipment that
could be immediately used as stand-by equipment for when unscheduled repairs
or replacement is necessary. At this time, the current signal cabinet has been
determined to still be in prime working condition. It is the recommendation of City staff to return the
•Foothill & Patricia (Box #36)
•Foothill & Chorro & Broad (Box #34)
•Marsh & Higuera (Box #43)
•Madonna & Oceanaire (Box #46)
•Johnson & Lizzie (Box #39)
•Broad & Orcutt (Box #59)
6 New Locations
•South Street & S. Higuera (Box #12)
•S. Higuera & Madonna (Box #24)
•Broad & Pismo (Box #6)*
•Broad & Buchon (Box #25)
4 Repaired
Locations
•Osos & Monterey (Box #30)
1
Reconstruction
& Relocation
* New design by
Elizabeth Hudson
proposed by the Art
Jury for this location
3-26
signal cabinet (with its exterior box art mural) to the equipment “inventory” in the Traffic Signals
division for use as a future replacement box when needed.
4.0 PROJECT ANALYSIS
The ARC’s purview with the proposed 2016 Box Art project is to review the proposed box art
designs and locations for consistency with the City’s Guidelines for public art as summarized
below. The City’s Public Art Policy designates the ARC to evaluate the proposed program for
very specific criteria. Staff has provided statements (in italics) identifying whether the program
meets the criteria, which the Commission can approve or modify as desired.
1)Publicly funded public art shall be located within the public right-of-way, a public building
or otherwise shall be easily visible or accessible from a public right-of-way. Interior
locations for public art are permitted, and shall be freely open and accessible to the public.
a.The 11 utility/traffic control boxes proposed for the 2016 Box Art Project are
located at various high visibility (including high pedestrian, vehicle and bicycle
traffic locations) intersections throughout the city.
2)Privately funded public art shall be located on privately owned land or buildings which are
places of high visibility to the public. Such places shall be in exterior locations, and not
within buildings. If privately funded public art is donated to the City, Guideline No.1 above
applies to location of art.
a.Not applicable. Funding for the Box Art program is supported through the Public
Art Fund.
3)Consideration shall be given to the size, massing, location and scale of the proposed piece
and to potential conflicts with present or future vegetation or construction.
a.Not applicable. City-owned traffic signal boxes are located on sidewalks and are
free from surrounding vegetation.
4)Public art shall be compatible with the immediate site and neighborhood in terms of
historic, social and cultural characteristics, architectural scale, materials, land use, and
geographical and environmental context.
a.The Art Selection Jury considered the sensitivity of the location when reviewing
and recommending artwork for boxes located in or around historically significant
sites and is ultimately recommending artwork that is appropriately matched with
the context of the site.
5)The design and placement of public art shall not impede pedestrian or vehicle traffic, or
conflict with public or private easements.
3-27
a.The selected utility/traffic control boxes do not impede pedestrian traffic or conflict
with public or private easements.
6)Consideration shall be given to any public safety or public health concerns created by the
artwork.
a.The proposed program creates no public safety or health concerns. Each box will
be painted with premium high solids 100% acrylic latex waterborne exterior paint
with an anti-graffiti clear top coat.
7)Public art shall be integrated with the site and/or building, and include landscaping,
lighting, interpretive information and other amenities where appropriate.
a.Not applicable. Artwork shall be directly applied to the exterior of City-owned
traffic signal boxes.
8)Public art shall be securely installed.
a.Not applicable. Artwork shall be directly applied to the exterior of City-owned
traffic signal boxes.
Community Design Guidelines
Chapter 6.4 of the Community Design Guidelines discusses the procedural criteria for the selection
and placement of public art. As proposed, the artwork is consistent with these guidelines.
(Attachment 7)
5.0 ALTERNATIVE
1.Determine that the proposed public art is inconsistent with the City’s Community Design
Guidelines and the City’s adopted Public Art Policy, and based on these findings; direct
staff to seek an alternative design or location.
6.0 ATTACHMENTS
1.Current Box Art Map
2.Council Agenda Report July 19, 2016
3.Utility Box Priority Painting List
4.Box Art Jury Member Roster
5.Proposed 2016 Box Art Locations Map
6.Proposed Artwork and Locations
7.Community Design Guidelines, Section 6.4
3-28
CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
SUBJECT: Review the 2016 Utility Box Art murals proposed for the Old Town and Downtown
Historic District locations.
ADDRESS: City-Owned Traffic Signals BY:Melissa Mudgett, Recreation Manager
Phone Number: (805) 781-7296
e-mail: mmudgett@slocity.org
FILE NUMBER: OTHR-3827-2016 FROM: Brian Leveille, Senior Planner
1.0 SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Draft Resolution (Attachment 1), which recommends that the City Council approve the box
art design for the traffic signal utility boxes located in the Old Town and Downtown Historic
Districts as part of the 2016 Box Art Project.
Applicant City of San Luis Obispo
Representative Melissa Mudgett, City Parks and Recreation
Submittal Date 09/26/2016
Complete Date 11/20/2016
Zoning C-D-H (Downtown-Commercial with Historic Overlay) & R-2-H (Medium-Density
Residential with Historic Overlay)
Environmental
Status
Categorically Exempt from environmental review, Class 1, Minor Alteration of
Existing Public Facilities, of the CEQA Guidelines.
2.0 BACKGROUND
Initially conceived as a program to discourage and abate graffiti and to enhance unattractive
utility/traffic signal boxes at various high visibility intersections in the Downtown core, the Utility
Box Art Program received funding from the City Council in 2010 for the painting of sixteen
downtown utility boxes. Widespread popularity of the box art program has grown and today the
Box Art Program has thirty-three painted boxes throughout the City (Map of current box art
locations provided as Attachment 2).
On July 19, 2016, the City Council approved updates to the City’s Public Art Policy to include the
Utility Box Art as a regular and ongoing public art program. The updated Public Art Policy for
the Box Art now addresses ongoing maintenance for the box art murals, the duration of mural
exhibits, expansion of the Box Art program and archival of the mural artwork.
Currently, the City of San Luis Obispo owns and operates a total of sixty-five (65) traffic signal
utility boxes. Of this amount, 32 are available for new art murals and have been prioritized for
Meeting Date: September 26, 2016
Item Number: 1
Attachment 6
3-29
CHC OTHR-3827-2016 (Old Town & Downtown Box Art)
Page 2
paintings in future box art phases. It is anticipated that the painting of these new blank utility
boxes could occur in phases over the next three to seven years, as public art funding is available.
On August 31, 2016, a Box Art Selection Jury, consisting of various community members, convened
to review all box art design proposals and present its proposed selection to the appropriate City
Advisory Bodies. The 2016 Box Art Selection Jury included fourteen (14) members who are arts
advocates, professional artists, advisory body representatives, local business owners, an educator,
historians, community members, and representatives from the Downtown Association and the
Chamber of Commerce. The 2016 Box Art Jury group roster is provided as Attachment 3.
The Art Jury reviewed 89 design proposals submitted by local artists and compared these designs for
artistic excellence and appropriateness to the location. Of the 89 design proposals, the Art Jury is
recommending approval of designs (both new artwork and repaired murals) for 11 city-owned
utility/traffic control boxes at various locations throughout the community. A summary including all
of the proposed designs and their respective locations for the 2016 Box Art Project is provided as
Attachment 4.
3.0 PROJECT INFORMATION
3.1 Site Information/Setting
Three utility boxes are proposed
for new art murals and are located
in the Old Town and Downtown
Historic Districts. Two utility
boxes are located within the
boundary of Old Town and one in
the Downtown Historic District.
Figure 1 shows the proposed
general locations of the utility
boxes.
3.2 Project Description
2016 Utility Box Art Project
Old Town Locations: Two utility
signal boxes are located in the Old
Town Historic District, as shown
above as number 1 and 2 in the
Figure above. The utility boxes are
located on the public right-of-way sidewalks within the Old Town Historic District. The
location map (Attachment 5), identifies the locations.
LOCATION #1 - Broad Street at Pismo Street (Box Art #6)
LOCATION #2 - Buchon Street at Broad Street (Box #25)
Figure 1: Utility Box Art Locations in Old Town Historic District
3
2 1
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CHC OTHR-3827-2016 (Old Town & Downtown Box Art)
Page 3
Figure 2: Utility Box Art Locations in Old Town Historic District
Location #1 – Broad & Pismo (6) Location #2 – Buchon & Broad (25)
Box Art Mural Descriptions: These traffic signal cabinets have recently undergone box
modifications and repairs to install external battery backup units. These external UPC battery unit
have impacted the artwork completely on the front sides facing the streets. In accordance with the
adopted Public Art Policy, artists receive the first right of refusal in repainting should the artwork
be impacted in advance of its predetermined life-span. The original artist, Alister Dippner, for the
Utility Box located at Broad and Pismo Streets has opted not to repaint the current mural at this
location. After extensive review and consideration based upon this locale, the Box Art Jury is
recommending the proposed design “Jacaranda Deco” for this historic district location.
The Art Jury is recommending the “Jacaranda Deco” design for the location of Broad and Pismo
Streets as it captures the relatively simple but upscale elegance that typified San Luis Obispo’s
most exclusive neighborhood prior to the turn of the 20th century. The illustration style and lively
purple colors were inspired by period examples and local architecture of the neighborhood. The
design is reflective of several purple Victorian home located just a few blocks away from this
traffic signal box location.
This utility signal box at location #2 (Buchon and Broad Streets) has also received the same signal
cabinet modifications to install an external battery backup unit. The original artist, Chris Pederson,
has indicated his desire to repair the current box art mural titled “Roots, Rocks, Right and Left”.
This design was approved by the City Council in 2012.
The proposed designs are provided below in Figure 3 and in a greater detail as Attachment 6.
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CHC OTHR-3827-2016 (Old Town & Downtown Box Art)
Page 4
Figure 3. Box Art Mural Deigns proposed for Old Town Historic District
Location #1 – Proposed New Design (6) Location #2 – Repaired Mural (25)
“Jacaranda Deco” “Roots, Rocks, Right & Left”
Downtown Location: One utility signal box is located in the Downtown Historic District, as shown
above in Figure 1 as Location #3. This utility box is located on the public right-of-way sidewalk
within the Downtown District and within close proximity of the Court Street retail businesses. This
location is identified in Attachment 4.
LOCATION #3 – Osos Street at Monterey Street (Box Art #30)
Figure 4: Utility Box Art Locations in Downtown Historic District
Location #3 – Osos & Monterey (30)
Description: Pending Project Site Work
The intersection of Osos and Monterey is scheduled to receive
significant infrastructure upgrades and reconstruction in the late
fall/early winter. As part of construction efforts, the current signal
box will be replaced with a new, larger signal cabinet. The recently
updated Box Art program policy articulates how box art murals that
are located on signal cabinets will be preserved in the event the
signal cabinet is removed entirely from the City’s traffic signal
system. The physical signal cabinet with the artwork could be
3-32
CHC OTHR-3827-2016 (Old Town & Downtown Box Art)
Page 5
relocated to other city parks, community gardens or pathways to remain on public display.
While considering the possible relocation of this signal cabinet (Box Art #30), it was determined by
City Traffic Signal staff that the signal cabinet is still in working order and in fact, an increasingly
rare piece of signal equipment that could be immediately used as stand-by equipment for when
unscheduled repairs or replacement is necessary. At this time, the current signal cabinet has been
determined to still be in prime working condition. It is the recommendation of City staff to return the
signal cabinet (with its exterior box art mural) to the equipment “inventory” in the Traffic Signals
division for use as a future replacement box when needed.
Box Art Mural Description
After extensive review of designs and this downtown location, the Box Art Jury is recommending
the proposed design “Love of Color” for this historic district location at Osos and Monterey Streets.
The Art Jury recommendation reflects the bustling tourism economy of the downtown core and
the representation of diversity
within the mural design. The
artist’s approach was to depict the
community’s love and
appreciation for art. This box art
mural would serve as a reminder
and offer cheer to those walking
by and experiencing our
community’s creativity and
uniqueness. The design is
provided in greater detail as
Attachment 5.
4.0
EVALUATION/DISCUSSION
The CHC’s purview is to review
the project in terms of its
consistency with the Historic
Preservation Program Guidelines and to provide recommendations to the City Council. The CHC
should provide feedback on the proposed box art mural designs for compatibility with the Old
Town and the Downtown Historic Districts’ prevailing historic character.
The Historic Preservation Program Guidelines discuss that new structures1 shall be “designed to
be architecturally compatible with the district’s prevailing historic character as measured by
their consistency with the scale, massing, rhythm … New structures are not required to copy or
imitate historic structures…”2 Additionally they “should not sharply contrast with, significantly
block public views of, or visually detract from, the historic architectural character of historically
1 Historic Preservation Program Guidelines Section 5.5 Definitions: “Structure” includes anything assembled or
constructed on the ground, or attached to anything with a foundation on the ground, including walls, fences, buildings,
signs, bridges, monuments, and similar features.
2 Historic Preservation Program Guidelines Section 3.2.1.
Figure 5. Box Art Mural Design proposed for Downtown Historic
District
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CHC OTHR-3827-2016 (Old Town & Downtown Box Art)
Page 6
designated structures … or detract from the prevailing historic architectural character of the
historic district.”3
4.1 Box Art Murals and Locations
The box art mural designs, as proposed by the Art Jury, complement and incorporate much of
the same architectural elements of the historic districts. Overall, staff is in support of the Art
Jury’s findings that the proposed designs are harmonizing to the neighborhoods and to not
visually detract from historically designated structures or detract from the character of the Old
Town and Downtown Historic Districts. The CHC should discuss if the proposed utility box
art murals’ colors or design are consistent with the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines.
Concurrently, the proposed 2016 Box Art Project designs and locations will be presented to
the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) for review and recommendation to the City
Council at its September 19, 2016 meeting.
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is exempt from environmental review under Class 1 (Section 15301) Existing Facilities
for Minor Alteration of Existing Private or Public Facilities, of the CEQA Guidelines because the
project proposes to install murals on existing public structures (utility boxes) that are consistent
with the applicable general plan policies as well as with applicable City regulations.
6.0 RECOMMENDATION
Recommend to the City Council that the 2016 Utility Box Art project be approved, based on
findings, and subject to the conditions in the attached resolution.
7.0 ALTERNATIVES
1.Recommend that the project be denied based on inconsistency with the City’s Historic
Preservation Program Guidelines and/or Secretary of Interior Standards.
2.Continue the item with specific direction for additional discussion or research.
8.0 ATTACHMENTS
1.Draft Resolution
2.Box Art Map
3.Box Art Jury Roster
4.Proposed 2016 Box Art Project Summary
5.Historical District Location Map
6.Mural Details for Historic District Locations
3 Historic Preservation Program Guidelines Section 3.2.2.
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