TAMRMS#: B02
REQUEST FOR DECISION
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Arts Development Advisory Committee 2026 Project Plan Funding Requests
Presented by: Jacilyn Blackwood, Visual Arts Coordinator, Community Services
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RECOMMENDED MOTION(S)
recommendation
That the Arts Development Advisory Committee recommend to Council that $250,000 be pulled from the Public Art Reserve to support three Public Art projects to begin in late 2025/early 2026.
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SUMMARY
Administration has worked collaboratively with internal stakeholders and the Arts Development Advisory Committee to identify three opportunities for the inclusion of Public Art in one Capital Project currently in development, and two opportunities for space enhancement with the addition of Public Art.
ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL DIRECTION OR MANDATORY STATUTORY PROVISION
On May 21, 2024 Council passed the following motions:
(CB-24-017)
“That the Public Art Policy C-CS-25, attached to the agenda report entitled “Arts Development Advisory Committee Recommendations - Public Art Policy C-CS-25” dated May 21, 2024, be approved.”
Passed unanimously.
Bylaw 9/2020 S.(21)(a)(ii), (b), (d).
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
Administration has worked collaboratively with internal stakeholders and the Arts Development Advisory Committee to identify opportunities for the inclusion of Public Art. To align with Capital Projects Administration requires funding allocated from our reserve to the proposed project, allowing Administration to integrate the Public Art process with the Capital Project process. This supports Administration to thoroughly consider project details and create a critical path which allows for artists on the design team, meaningful engagement, schedule alignment, and budget management.
The following projects Administration is seeking funding towards are:
Midtown Park & Connector Park
Funding allocation: $200,000.00
The Midtown neighbourhood contains several parks and open spaces through the South Riel Area Structure Plan. The first site jointly developed between area developer, Averton, and the City of St. Albert in 2022, is Rondeau Park. This neighbourhood park includes a large nature-based playground, seating, and large open spaces for community gatherings. Remaining to be developed is the first true urban square in St. Albert, as defined by the Parks and Open Space Standards and Guidelines: “Urban Squares / Plazas are flexible spaces that provide opportunity for community gathering, civic events, and social interactions. They contribute to the character, vibrancy and livability of higher density mixed use and commercial areas.”
Integrating public art into the proposed urban plaza presents a unique opportunity to transform the space into a dynamic and inclusive community hub. This initiative will elevate the area’s visual identity while creating meaningful opportunities for artists to collaborate directly with the capital project team and engage with the community. Artwork can be thoughtfully incorporated into various elements-such as seating areas, the plaza stage, pathways, or other features identified by the artists.
By incorporating public art into the design of the plaza, this project will act as a catalyst for cultural expression and local economic growth, benefiting nearby businesses and enriching the urban experience. This project will strengthen community connections and activate the plaza as a vibrant, welcoming destination for both residents and visitors.
The Recycle Yard Sea Can Mural:
Funding allocation: $35,0000
This funding supports the call to artists, selection committee, artists scope of work including community engagement, materials, site prep, installation, and contingency.
The Recycle Yard located at 7 Chevigny St. in St. Albert recently acquired a repurposed shipping container for a new office space. This is a great opportunity for a mural to be painted on the exterior of the shipping container that celebrates community, creativity, and care for the environment. One artist will be chosen through the request for qualification process and will be asked to engage with users of the local recycle yard to understand shared values of sustainability. The artwork should highlight the importance of recycling, protecting nature, and working together for a healthier community. By transforming a used shipping container into a colourful symbol of renewal, the mural will remind our community members that positive change starts at the local level.
Secret Park Public Art site activation
Funding allocation: $15,000.00
This is a project that our Arts Development Advisory Committee suggested to us. St. Albert has many secret parks within communities that others do not really know about. How can Administration transform these spaces and get residents to travel to other neighbourhoods within our City to see new and exciting things? Well, with art, of course!
This would be a temporary project, designed to invite exploration, spark conversation, and cultivate a sense of shared ownership over public space. Temporary art, by its nature, encourages spontaneity and wonder, reminding us to appreciate the present and engage more deeply with our surroundings. Through summer workshops encouraging community participation, this project aims to empower participants of all ages and backgrounds to become co-creators in shaping the cultural life of their neighborhood.
By turning a park into a canvas for collective expression, even briefly, this project will leave a lasting impact, not in physical permanence, but in the strengthened connections and renewed sense of possibility it nurtures within the community.
The park Administration would program is to be determined; however they are working with our Community Development Coordinator and Arts Development Advisory Committee to find a good match.
This funding supports the call to artists, selection committee, artists scope of work including community engagement, materials, fabrication, installation, and contingency.
Please note, that full project plans and milestone updates will be brought to ADAC to review and provide feedback.
STAKEHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS OR ENGAGEMENT
Internal City Departments
Community Members
Business Owners located near project locations
Financial:
Current uncommitted Public Art Reserve Fund total: $1,090,332.71 which is separated into maintenance and acquisition.
Current funding availability for acquisition is: $279,992.14
Current funding availability for maintenance is: $650,184.54
In January 2026, Administration will receive annual funding to their reserve for maintenance and acquisition.
Compliance & Legal:
Public Art Policy C-CS-25
Arts Development Advisory Committee Bylaw 9/2020
Program or Service:
This will impact Administration’s ability to include public art in capital projects. Having funding approved will enable Administration to remain committed to collaborating and aligning with capital project timelines.
Organizational:
This will support Administrations engagement with internal stakeholders on aligning with project plans, and delivering integrated and thoughtful Public Art projects throughout the community.
Risks:
If the funding is not supported, this will prevent Administration from further engaging with internal stakeholders or aligning with project plans currently in development.
ALIGNMENT TO PRIORITIES IN COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC PLAN
Initiative aligned with Strategic Plan:
3. Community Well Being
Operational Excellence Priority Area:
2. Planning and Prioritizing
ALIGNMENT TO SERVICE DELIVERY
A.1.2.d Public Art Collection
The Public Art Collection includes a variety of mediums including pottery, painting, sculpture and fibre arts. These artworks are displayed at City owned buildings in highly accessible and visible public spaces as well as offices to build visual culture awareness, create engaging spaces and increase quality of life and place. This subservice oversees the display and acquisition of standalone and integrated artworks through purchases, commissions, or loans. Public art is considered in the design objectives of all new municipal capital and building projects.
IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
ALTERNATIVE 1: None of the items included within the workplan are supported and a reserve allocation is not recommended.
Financial:
Money remains in reserve.
Compliance & Legal:
N/A
Program or Service:
Administration will be unable to deliver the program objectives as outlined in the policy and will not be able to fulfill commitments to other departments regarding the inclusion of public art in their projects.
Organizational:
This could impact inter-departmental relationships, as there is support for including public artwork in planned projects. Without funding to fulfill its commitment to public art, Administration may be unable to continue collaborating effectively, as it would not be able to align with project schedules or engage in design phase.
Risks:
Without funding being allocated for public art, Administration may be unable to reliably meet commitments, leading to potential exclusion from future Capital Project planning by other departments. This could hinder the integration of art during the design phase, reducing overall project efficiency.
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Report Date: June 25, 2025
Author(s): Jacilyn Blackwood, Visual Arts Coordinator
Department: Community Services
Department Director: Elizabeth Wilkie
Managing Director: Dinu Alex
Chief Administrative Officer: William Fletcher