TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: City Manager
SUBJECT: Arts in Public Places Program
MEETING DATE: April 22, 2025
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Receive a presentation from acclaimed artist Arturo Gonzalez.
2. Approve the installation of murals by artist Nerv at multiple locations, including Rosewood Park, the Mitsubishi site, 5310 Washington Blvd., 5255 Washington Blvd., and the City Hall parking lot, at a total cost of $34,000.
3. Approve the creation and installation of four (4) murals by Paul Botello on the Atlantic and Goodrich Bridge at a total cost of $34,410.
BACKGROUND
The City of Commerce continues to support and promote public art as a means to enhance the urban environment, celebrate cultural identity, and strengthen community spirit.
Recognizing the transformative power of art, the City has empowered the Arts in Public Places Committee to work collaboratively with local artists and stakeholders to identify meaningful art opportunities across the city.
The Arts in Public Places Subcommittee recently met with two artists, Nerv and Paul Botello, to evaluate potential mural locations. Several key areas were identified, including the opposite side of the Atlantic and Goodrich Bridge, as well as various public and private properties within the Commerce Arts District.
As a result of ongoing efforts, the Committee has successfully engaged property owners and business stakeholders to secure multiple mural sites. These efforts have culminated in two proposed public art initiatives for City Council consideration:
• Murals by Nerv: These will be installed at five prominent locations within the City:
o Rosewood Park
Item No.
CITY OF COMMERCE
AGENDA REPORT
o Mitsubishi location
o 5310 Washington Blvd.
o 5255 Washington Blvd.
o City Hall Parking Lot
Total Cost: $34,000
• Atlantic and Goodrich Bridge Murals: Four murals to be painted on the opposite side of the existing artwork by Paul Botello.
Total Cost: $34,410
The proposed installations are part of a broader initiative to revitalize and promote the Commerce Arts District, with additional sites under consideration for future phases.
These mural projects reflect the City’s commitment to supporting public art and creating visually engaging spaces that reflect the culture and creativity of the Commerce community. The proposed installations will contribute significantly to the visual landscape and identity of the Arts District and other public areas.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funding for these mural projects, totaling $68,410, will be allocated from the Arts in Public Places, pending Council approval.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve staff recommendation
2. Disapprove staff recommendation
3. Provide further direction to staff
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC GOALS:
This item is related to a specific 2016 Strategic Goal to “Develop and invest in infrastructure and beautification projects and support economic growth.” Prepared by: Lena Shumway, Director of Administrative Services and City Clerk Reviewed by: Alvaro Castellon, Finance Director
Approved as to form: Noel Tapia, City Attorney
Respectfully submitted: Ernie Hernandez, City Manager
1. Arturo Gonzalez – Artist introduction
QR Codes
2. Mural Artist - Nerv
Locations throughout the City, including:
5310 Washington Blvd.
Mitsubishi Dealer – Proposed Possible Options
City Hall Parking Lot
5255 Washington Blvd.
Rosewood Park multiple sites
Total cost for all murals by Nerv in various locations identified is $34,000
3. Mixmaster Proposal for (4) murals – by Paul Botello at Atlantic and Goodrich Bridge location
Total cost for (4) murals is $34,410.