Public Art Committee

Public Art Committee Agenda Merriam Visitors Bureau, 6304 E. Frontage Road October 9, 2025 - 5:30 PM If you require any accommodation (i.e. qualified interpreter, large print, reader, hearing assistance) in order to attend this meeting, please notify the Administrative Office at 913-322-5500 no later than 24 hours prior to the beginning of the meeting. I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. ACTION ITEMS 1. Consider approval of the September 11, 2025 minutes Public Art Committee - Sep 11 2025 - Minutes IV. PROJECT UPDATES 1. Review samples for City Hall window project 2. Possible ribbon ceremony cutting for "Grow Together" and "Seasons Steps' 3. Discuss next project - Butterfly Garden Area on Streamway Trail 4. City Updates 5. Other items from the floor V. ADJOURNMENT  MINUTES Public Art Committee Meeting City of Merriam, Kansas Merriam Community Center, 6040 Thursday, September 11, 2025 5:30 PM Slater St. I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Shawn McConnell called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. II. ROLL CALL Committee Members Present: Staff Present: Gerald Becker Lauren Krivoshia, Assistant to the City Administrator Jan Schoonover Dave Smothers, Assistant Parks and Recreation Jordan Gomez Director Julie Denesha Shawn McConnell Jason Silvers Staci Chivetta Committee Members Absent: Maggie McConnell Christine Nelson Vanessa Chasm III. ACTION ITEMS 1. Consider approval of the July 10, 2025 Public Art Committee minutes. Committee Member Denesha made a motion to approve the minutes. Committee Member Gomez seconded and the motion was unanimously APPROVED. IV. PROJECT UPDATES 1. City Hall Window Designs Members agreed that the sun design was their favorite, noting that it nicely combines Merriam and Kansas symbols such as sunflowers, wheat, and shapes that bring windmills to mind. There was some discussion about the blue color options, especially how they might blend or Page 1 of 2 Public Art Committee Minutes – September 11, 2025 contrast with the blue awning. The committee asked if a material sample could be provided to see how it looks in the space and whether the material is likely to fade over time. Members also liked the idea of the design wrapping around to the east-facing windows so it’s more visible from the street. 2. Milagros Collective Wrap Up The Milagros Collective mural project has generated overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community. The gallery talk was enjoyed by participants. Remaining tasks include installing the final rocks and sealing the green areas on the interior stairs. After discussion, the committee selected Grow Together as the title for the interior mural. Milagros chose Seasons Steps for the exterior stairs mural. The artists reflected on their experience in Merriam, noting the welcoming and tight-knit community, the diversity of Kansas City, and the richness of Kansas beyond prairie grass, as well as positive experiences with local food and the JCCC museum. Overall, the project was incredibly positive and inspiring for them. Next steps include installation of signage and planning a ribbon-cutting event in conjunction with the City’s birthday celebration. 3. Next Project The committee is interested in exploring the clearing along Turkey Creek Streamway Trail for their next project. They like a project there would be an unexpected surprise, but also understand that it’s not constantly monitored. Staff will share photos of the area with the committee and research logistics such as the flood plain and utility easements. The committee may consider inviting artists who applied to the last RFQ. If they decide to create a new RFQ, they will consider how to refine the scope of the project. Staff will confirm the remaining budget allocated for Public Art. The committee is also interested in establishing a 1% for art policy for development projects. Chair McConnell remains interested in a pedestrian bridge across Shawnee Mission Parkway. 4. City Updates Merriam residents and businesses are invited to pick up free marble scraps from the former Baker Marble location on Sunday. The City’s 75th Birthday Party is Oct. 23 and the final hearts for Hearts Across Merriam will be hidden at the event. The September exhibit in the Tim Murphy Art Gallery celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, and there’s a video featuring the artists on Facebook. GFL is now offering residential trash service in Merriam, though this is not through the City’s contract. 5. Other Business From the Floor No items. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no other items to consider, the meeting was adjourned at 6:32 p.m. Page 2 of 2