HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOARD STANDING COMMITTEES - 09092024 - Internal Ops Agenda PktCONTRA COSTA COUNTY
AGENDA
Internal Operations Committee
Supervisor Diane Burgis, Chair
Supervisor Candace Andersen, Vice Chair
https://cccounty-us.zoom.us/j/85280600959
Call In: 888-278-0254 Conference code: 845965
309 Diablo Rd, Danville
3361 Walnut Blvd, Suite 140, Brentwood
https://cccounty-us.zoom.us/j/852806009
59 | Call In: 888-278-0254 Conference
code: 845965
11:00 AMMonday, September 9, 2024
The public may attend this meeting in person at either above location . The public may also
attend this meeting remotely via Zoom or call-in.
Agenda Items: Items may be taken out of order based on the business of the day and preference of the
Committee.
1.Call to Order
2.Public comment on any item under the jurisdiction of the Committee and not on this agenda
(speakers may be limited to two (2) minutes).
3.RECEIVE and CONSIDER approving the Record of Action for the July 8, 2024
Internal Operations Committee meeting. (Julie Enea, County Administrator's
Office)
24-2661
DRAFT IOC Record of Action for 7-8-24Attachments:
4.CONSIDER approving the proposed County public art policy or directing
modifications to the policy for final recommendation to the Board of Supervisors .
(Lara DeLaney, County Administrator’s Office)
24-2662
CCC Art Policy Draft - 8-30-24 (2)
Chart-COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS (2)
Sample Utility Box Program Guidelines (City of Costa Mesa)
Chart-COMMUNITY INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROPOSALS
Sample Art Donation Form (City of San Diego)
Attachments:
5.The next meeting is currently scheduled for October 14, 2024.
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Internal Operations Committee AGENDA September 9, 2024
Adjourn
General Information
This meeting provides reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities planning to attend a the
meetings. Contact the staff person listed below at least 72 hours before the meeting. Any disclosable
public records related to an open session item on a regular meeting agenda and distributed by the
County to a majority of members of the Committee less than 96 hours prior to that meeting are available
for public inspection at 1025 Escobar St., 4th Floor, Martinez, during normal business hours. Staff
reports related to items on the agenda are also accessible on line at www.co.contra-costa.ca.us.
HOW TO PROVIDE PUBLIC COMMENT:
Persons who wish to address the Committee during public comment on matters within the jurisdiction
of the Committee that are not on the agenda, or who wish to comment with respect to an item on the
agenda, may comment in person, via Zoom, or via call-in. Those participating in person should offer
comments when invited by the Committee Chair. Those participating via Zoom should indicate they
wish to speak by using the “raise your hand” feature in the Zoom app. Those calling in should indicate
they wish to speak by pushing *9 on their phones.
Public comments generally will be limited to two (2) minutes per speaker. In the interest of facilitating
the business of the Board Committee, the total amount of time that a member of the public may use in
addressing the Board Committee on all agenda items is 10 minutes. Your patience is appreciated.
Public comments may also be submitted to Committee staff before the meeting by email or by
voicemail. Comments submitted by email or voicemail will be included in the record of the meeting but
will not be read or played aloud during the meeting.
For Additional Information Contact:
Page 2 of 2
2
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
Staff Report
1025 ESCOBAR STREET
MARTINEZ, CA 94553
File #:24-2661 Agenda Date:9/9/2024 Agenda #:3.
INTERNAL OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
Meeting Date:September 9, 2024
Subject:Record of Action for the July 8, 2024 IOC Meeting
Submitted For:Monica Nino
Department:County Administrator
Referral No:
Referral Name:
Presenter:Julie Enea
Contact:Julie.Enea@cao.cccounty.us
Referral History:
County Ordinance requires that each County body keep a record of its meetings. Though the record need not be
verbatim, it must accurately reflect the agenda and the decisions made in the meeting
Referral Update:
Attached is the Record of Action for the July 8, 2024 Internal Operations Committee meeting
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
RECEIVE and APPROVE the Record of Action for the July 8, 2024 Internal Operations Committee meeting
Fiscal Impact (if any):
None.
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
Committee Meeting Minutes
Internal Operations Committee
Supervisor Diane Burgis, Chair
Supervisor Candace Andersen, Vice Chair
https://cccounty-us.zoom.us/j/85280600959
Call In: 888-278-0254 Conference code: 845965
11:00 AM 309 Diablo Rd, Danville
3361 Walnut Blvd, Suite 140, Brentwood
https://cccounty-us.zoom.us/j/85280600959
Call In: 888-278-0254 Conference code: 845965
Monday, July 8, 2024
1. Call to Order
Chair Burgis called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m. In attendance were: Jason Chan, Marc
Shorr, Nathan Wiebe, Bob Campbell, Rex Fujikawa, Chrystine Robbins, Sara Bunnell, Tamina
Alon, Alicia Nuchols, Sonia Bustamonte, Ellen McDonnell, and staff attending remotely from the
District II and III Supervisors' offices.
Diane Burgis and Candace AndersenPresent:
2.Public comment on any item under the jurisdiction of the Committee and not on this agenda (speakers
may be limited to two (2) minutes).
No one requested to speak during the public comment period.
3.RECEIVE and CONSIDER approving the Record of Action for the June 10, 2024 Internal
Operations Committee meeting. (Jason Chan, County Administrator's Office)
Attachments:DRAFT IOC ROA 6-10-24
Approved as presented.
Chair Burgis and Vice Chair AndersenAye:
Result:Passed
4.RECEIVE presentation on the proposed Information Security Policy and CONSIDER
approving the recommended policy for Board of Supervisors consideration or providing
direction to staff on any changes. (Marc Shorr, Chief Information Officer)
Attachments:Presentation: Admin Bulletin on Information Security
Final Draft: Information Security Administrative Bulletin
Sample Electronic Data Management Plan
Marc Shorr and Nathan Wiebe presented the staff report. Marc contrasted the County’s
current cybersecurity awareness and capabilities with that of seven years ago when he
first arrived at the County. He mentioned prior grand jury reports that pointed out that
while the County had duplication of security technologies, it did not have true
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Internal Operations Committee Committee Meeting Minutes July 8, 2024
redundancy or fail-safe security capabilities. He said that the COVID pandemic
exacerbated that challenge because it diverted limited staff focus away from IT security.
Marc explained how in recent years, the IT threat environment has increased
significantly. For example, on the dark web today, hackers sell hacking toolkits for
significant profit, effectively weaponizing hacking tools for use by individuals needing
very little knowledge to do tremendous damage.
The goal of the new cybersecurity policy is to provide tools, strategies and guidance for
the benefit of all County departments whether supported by DoIT or by department IT
staff. He briefly discussed some of the tools and services DoIT employees to actively
monitor the County’s IT environment and detect intrusion. He provided some actual
events in which these tools and services were employed to good effect.
The new proposed policy was developed in collaboration with ITAC (Information
Technology Advisory Committee), following meetings with County departments and with
County Counsel. The policy provides minimum security guidelines and standards for
departments to attain. Marc acknowledged that some departments may be subject to
much higher security standards based on their business and data.
Marc emphasized the importance of consistent and comprehensive staff training, citing
that more than 70% of cyber attacks involved a human element. High ranking County
officials are often targets of these attacks due to their level of decision making and
discretion within the County. The County’s staff is its first line of defense against cyber
attacks.
Marc briefly discussed how artificial intelligence (AI) is presenting both exciting
opportunities and new and difficult challenges in terms of IT security. For example, by
agreeing to the Terms and Conditions of many popular AI platforms, staff may
inadvertently be consenting to the platform owning any data - potentially private data --
entered onto the platform via user prompts. He said that DoIT intends to bring a
separate policy forward specific to AI.
Nathan explained how these new cyber security standards and guidelines will be
socialized with departments to better understand the impacts associated with their
adoption and ensure their feasibility. Following BOS approval, next steps would be to
assess where security gaps exist and engage with those departments to elevate them to
the new standard for security.
Chair Burgis said it would be important to incorporate personal responsibility for
security breaches, so that education and training can be targeted to prevent recurrence.
She would like to see more awareness among staff as to the consequences to the County
and its clients of security breaches in terms of cost, lost time, and personal impacts.
Marc responded that the mandatory staff training would be conducted annually.
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Internal Operations Committee Committee Meeting Minutes July 8, 2024
Vice Chair Andersen asked if DoIT has the necessary resources to respond to a major
cyber security event. Marc responded that DoIT now has a five-person team dedicated to
information security. If outside help is needed, DoIT coordinates with Risk
Management to engage any needed supplemental resources depending on the severity of
the event. Outside assistance can be very helpful, particularly for events requiring public
notification.
Marc and Nathan expressed their gratitude for the Board’s and County Administrator’s
prioritization of cyber security and providing the necessary resources to support the
proper tooling and insurance.
No one requested to speak during the public comment period for this item.
The Committee approved the proposed policy, as presented. Vice Chair Andersen
requested staff to pass along to the County Administrator her request to schedule a
closed session briefing for the Board on cyber security threats.
Chair Burgis and Vice Chair AndersenAye:
Result:Passed
The August 12, 2024 meeting has been canceled. The next meeting is currently scheduled for September 9,
2024.
Adjourn
Chair Burgis confirmed the next scheduled meeting on September 9, 2024, and adjourned the
meeting at 11:33 a.m.
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Internal Operations Committee Committee Meeting Minutes July 8, 2024
General Information
This meeting provides reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities planning to attend a the
meetings. Contact the staff person listed below at least 72 hours before the meeting. Any disclosable public
records related to an open session item on a regular meeting agenda and distributed by the County to a majority
of members of the Committee less than 96 hours prior to that meeting are available for public inspection at 1025
Escobar St., 4th Floor, Martinez, during normal business hours. Staff reports related to items on the agenda are
also accessible on line at www.co.contra-costa.ca.us.
HOW TO PROVIDE PUBLIC COMMENT:
Persons who wish to address the Committee during public comment on matters within the jurisdiction of the
Committee that are not on the agenda, or who wish to comment with respect to an item on the agenda, may
comment in person, via Zoom, or via call-in. Those participating in person should offer comments when invited
by the Committee Chair. Those participating via Zoom should indicate they wish to speak by using the “raise
your hand” feature in the Zoom app. Those calling in should indicate they wish to speak by pushing *9 on their
phones.
Public comments generally will be limited to two (2) minutes per speaker. In the interest of facilitating the
business of the Board Committee, the total amount of time that a member of the public may use in addressing the
Board Committee on all agenda items is 10 minutes. Your patience is appreciated.
Public comments may also be submitted to Committee staff before the meeting by email or by voicemail.
Comments submitted by email or voicemail will be included in the record of the meeting but will not be read or
played aloud during the meeting.
For Additional Information Contact: Julie Enea, Sr. Deputy County Administrator; julie.enea@cao.cccounty.us
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
Staff Report
1025 ESCOBAR STREET
MARTINEZ, CA 94553
File #:24-2662 Agenda Date:9/9/2024 Agenda #:4.
INTERNAL OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
Meeting Date:September 9, 2024
Subject:Draft County Public Art Policy
Submitted For:Monica Nino, County Administrator
Department:County Administrator
Referral No:IOC 24/12
Referral Name:County Public Art Policy Development
Presenter:Lara DeLaney, Sr. Deputy CAO
Contact:Lara.DeLaney@cao.cccounty.us
Referral History:
On February 6, 2024, the Board of Supervisors referred to the Internal Operations Committee the development
and recommendation of a policy and procedures governing placement of art on County property and in public
rights-of-way.
On March 11, Senior Deputy Lara DeLaney of the County Administrator’s Office outlined a proposed scope of
work, timeline, and potential costs for such policy and procedure development and requested further direction
from the Internal Operations Committee (IOC). She suggested that such a policy and procedure should consider
but not be limited to:
·practical issues of situating, performing or presenting an artwork in a public place, such as durability,
security, safety, access and visibility;
·criteria for the siting and selection of public art projects (temporary and permanent);
·recommendations for processes by which artists are commissioned and selected for public art
commissions;
·recommendations for processes by which a community member, group, or artist initiates a proposal for
permanent or temporary public art on a County-owned building;
·recommendations for the process to receive community input from neighbors near the proposed art
project (including the local Municipal Advisory Council);
·policies for the management of commissioned art projects including, but not limited to,
County/artist/stakeholder roles and responsibilities, artist rights, artist agreements/contracting
requirements, and any applicable regulatory requirements;
·recommendations for roles and responsibilities for maintenance requirements of public art;
·guidelines for inclusion of public art in new County property/building development;
·standards for maintenance funding and managing public art inventory;
·policies and procedures for deaccession of artwork.
At the March 11 IOC meeting, Lara suggested potentially the development of a task force or steering
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File #:24-2662 Agenda Date:9/9/2024 Agenda #:4.
committee to provide additional input on the development of the policies and procedures in addition to
reviewing what other local jurisdictions have already developed and providing an opportunity for public input.
She said the goal would be to have a draft policy developed for the IOC’s review in September, followed by
Board of Supervisors consideration in November.
She identified the need for a consultant who has, experience specifically in public art policies to assist us with
this and noted that Rick Stein, the County’s former Arts Consultant was in attendance and has expressed
interest in in providing these services should the County decide to issue an RFP. Lara mentioned that the Arts
Council was invited to serve a consultant to the County on development of this policy but declined due to lack
of current capacity for such a project.
Lara identified some potential County Departments, whose staff input on such a policy/ procedures would be
helpful, including Public Works, Conservation and Development, County Library, Employment and Human
Services, and Health Services, and County Counsel.
Vice Chair Andersen asked that staff look to other agencies’ art policies as a starting point. Chair Burgis
requested a process that engages the unincorporated county communities to discover art ideas that reflect the
unique history, character, and pride of each community. She mentioned, for example, an existing wall mural in
Byron that illustrates the history of Byron. Possibly, such engagement could be included in the scope for work
for incorporating public art in new County property or building development.
In lieu of the proposed steering committee for policy development, Vice Chair Andersen preferred that staff
input be sought via survey or one-on-one discussion and from seeking County Supervisor input for high-level
guidance. However, if a committee would be more efficient for staff, the IOC preferred that it be kept small and
internal. The IOC also preferred to spend County funds on actual art projects than on a consultant to develop a
policy.
Rick Stein of Arts Orange County commented on his firm’s experience in guiding the policy development
process and agreed with the IOC that a robust community engagement process to develop a policy is not really
required. He noted that community engagement was not part of art policy development projects he worked on
for other jurisdictions leading up to the development of a draft policy, after which, there is the opportunity for
community input. He said there is a significant amount of communication throughout the process of developing
such policies with the staff of the municipalities or county because of the various concerns that different
departments would have in ensuring that best practices of their respective areas are observed and that no
unintended consequences are likely to ensue.
Referral Update:
Since receiving IOC direction in March, the CAO assembled a small working group composed of
representatives from the Health Services, Employment and Human Services, Public Works, Conservation and
Development, and Library departments, as well as from the CAO, County Counsel, and the Arts Council of
Contra Costa County, to prepare a draft policy and procedures document.
Attached, for the Committee’s consideration and discussion, are the policy and procedures drafted by Arts
Orange County, commissioned by the County Administrator, based on their review of local public art policies,
their development of policies in other jurisdictions, and the input and contributions from the small working
group assembled by the CAO.
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File #:24-2662 Agenda Date:9/9/2024 Agenda #:4.
The policy addresses the considerations identified in the March 11 staff report, per below, and addresses
permanent vs. temporary art installations, public art donations, as well as defining the policy scope and
definition of terms for better clarity and understanding.
Policy Considerations Identified March 11 Draft Policy Reference
Practical issues of situating, performing or
presenting an artwork in a public place, such as
durability, security, safety, access and visibility;
See Public Art Advisory Committee, Pg. 5
Criteria for the siting and selection of public art
projects (temporary and permanent);
See Section V. Identification of County-
Initiated Public Art Projects, Pg. 8
Recommendations for processes by which
artists are commissioned and selected for public
art commissions;
See Section VII. Artist Selection for County-
Initiated Public Art Projects, Pg. 9
Recommendations for processes by which a
community member, group, or artist initiates a
proposal for permanent or temporary public art
on a County-owned building;
See Section XIII. Community-Initiated Public
Art Proposals, Pg. 16
Recommendations for the process to receive
community input from neighbors near the
proposed art project (including the local
Municipal Advisory Council);
See Section VIII. Community Engagement, Pg.
11
Policies for the management of commissioned
art projects including, but not limited to,
County/artist/stakeholder roles and
responsibilities, artist rights, artist
agreements/contracting requirements, and any
applicable regulatory requirements;
See Section VI. Implementation of County-
Initiated Public Art Projects, Pg. 9 (Public Art
Project Manager); Section XI. Artists’ Rights.
Pg. 13
Recommendations for roles and responsibilities
for maintenance requirements of public art;
See Section XII. Public Art Donations, Pg 13;
Section XIII. Community-Initiated Public Art
Proposals; and Section XV. Maintenance of Art
in the Collection, Pg. 20
Guidelines for inclusion of public art in new
County property/building development;
See Section VI. Implementation of County-
Initiated Public Art Projects, Pg. 9
Standards for maintenance funding and
managing public art inventory;
See Section XV. Maintenance of Art in the
Collection, Pg. 20
Policies and procedures for deaccession of
artwork
See Section XIV. Deaccession of Art, Pg. 18
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
CONSIDER approving the proposed County public art policy or directing modifications to the policy for final
recommendation to the Board of Supervisors.
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File #:24-2662 Agenda Date:9/9/2024 Agenda #:4.
Fiscal Impact (if any):
No fiscal impact to adopt a policy and procedures. The fiscal impact of funding County-sponsored art projects
and installations is unknown and there is currently no budget appropriation for a County public arts program.
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 1 OF 23
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
PUBLIC ART POLICY
DRAFT
AUGUST 30, 2024
I. PURPOSE 2
II. VISION 2
III. APPLICABILITY 2
IV. DEFINITIONS 2
V. IDENTIFICATION OF COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS 7
VI. IMPLEMENTATION OF COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS 9
VII. ARTIST SELECTION FOR COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS 9
VIII. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 11
IX. COUNTY-INITIATED MURALS 12
X. UTILITY BOX ART 13
XI. ARTISTS’ RIGHTS 13
XII. PUBLIC ART DONATIONS 13
XIII. COMMUNITY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROPOSALS 16
XIV. DEACCESSION OF ART 18
XV. MAINTENANCE OF ART IN THE COLLECTION 20
XVI. APPENDIX:
Chart – Implementation of County-Initiated Public Art Projects
Sample Utility Box Program Guidelines (from City of Costa Mesa)
Chart – Implementation of Community-Initiated Public Art Proposals
Sample Art Donation Form (from City of San Diego)
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 2 OF 23
I. PURPOSE
Arts and Culture contribute positively to the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of a community.
Public Art in all its forms can support economic vitality and create bridges to unify communities.
The purpose of this policy is to establish uniform guidelines and procedures through which the
County can commission, consider, approve, or reject publicly accessible art on County owned or
controlled public property and accept or decline gifted artwork. The Public Art Policy will be
reviewed and updated by the Board of Supervisors, as needed.
II. VISION
An Arts and Culture Vision was identified in the Board’s adopted 2024 Arts & Culture Master
Plan for Contra Costa County (Spanish language version.) as articulated below.
“Contra Costa County will be a place where:
● arts and culture are integrated deeply into daily community life of all 19 of its cities
and unincorporated communities
● arts and culture reflect and celebrate the diversity of the County’s people, including
those that have been historically underrepresented
● arts and culture are accessible equitably to all, regardless of socio-economic status
● arts and culture contribute positively to the health and well-being of all
● arts participation is robust
● arts education is fundamental and is well-supported financially
● artists can live fulfilling and prosperous lives
● public art can be seen everywhere
● arts and culture build bridges between generations
● arts and culture create civic cohesion.”
III. APPLICABILITY
This policy applies to Public Art proposed to be located on County owned or controlled property
that is viewable from the public right-of-way or other public property. The stated applicability
excludes temporary exhibitions of Portable Artwork displayed in County facilities through
programmatic activity administered by County staff and/or graffiti abatement or other
beautification efforts administered or supported by the County on private property.
IV. DEFINITIONS
To ensure a clear understanding of the Public Art policies and procedures, the following
definitions are provided.
Art Consultant is an organization or individual working as a professional administrator
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 3 OF 23
of the arts relating to the arts such as, but not limited to, facilitating artistic and cultural
programs and services, contracting Artists and arts media for venues with public
audiences or providing oversight of on-site logistics, and who demonstrates success
in project management and provides leadership in the completion of public art
programs and projects.
Artist means a person or collective who has established a positive reputation of
artistic conceptualization and creation in the arts, including but not limited to visual, or
performing arts, as judged by peers and experts, and/or community members in the
field, through a record of public exhibitions, performances, commissions, sale of
works, recognition, educational attainment, and/or community engagement. The
qualified artist shall work primarily in the production of unique fine art. This definition
does not apply to project architects, landscape/hardscape designers, or other capital
improvement design professionals.
Arts Council is an organization designated by the Board of Supervisors as the County’s
official State-Local Partner with the California Arts Council. In this capacity, it manages arts
programs and services, and may be asked to provide expertise to the County about Public
Art Projects.
Community Engagement incorporates activities and dialogue of artistic inquiry and/or
audience participation that deepen an artist's connection with neighboring and greater
community and site stakeholders while stimulating reflection and idea generation as it
relates to the Public Art Project or artwork's objectives. An Artist’s developed Community
Engagement plan will be incorporated as a deliverable in the Artist’s agreement for services
for Public Art Projects. Community Engagement can take many forms with a variety of
audience participation types that may occur at any time during the lifetime of the project.
Conservation means the protection of County historical and cultural property/assets
through activities that minimize chemical and physical deterioration and damage and
that prevent loss of informational content.
County Owned or Controlled Property includes all real property owned in fee or
easement by the County (including County streets/rights of way) and all property
leased by the County
County Public Art Collection is composed of Public Artworks that have been
commissioned or accepted by donation or acquired by other means by the County.
Donations refer to original artwork (not applicable to mass produced or decorative
works) gifted from its last documented owner to the County with supporting
documentation that attests to its provenance and estimated market value. Donations
must conform with the Donation Policy contained herein and require acceptance by the
Public Art Advisory Committee. Donations with a documented value of more than
$10,000 require acceptance by the Board of Supervisors.
Eligible County Capital Project means a new building or facility and any expansion or
refurbishment of an existing facility or system that may generate an in-tandem Public
Art Project.
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 4 OF 23
Exhibition means a short-term, single day or several month presentation of Public Art,
which can include visual, literary, performing arts, or other programming. Opportunities
are provided for artists (established or emerging) and/or students through submission-
based processes when available.
Maintenance shall mean a minimally invasive, routine and regularly scheduled activity that
may involve the removal of superficial dirt or debris build-up on the surface of an artwork or
the cleaning and repair of non-art support material such as a pedestal or plaque.
Mural means original one-of-a-kind Public Art that is created by an Artist or Artists,
sometimes in tandem with community members. The art image may be painted or
applied directly on a prepared wall surface or on an intermediate substrate such as a
panel or canvas and attached on an interior or exterior wall of a building. Murals will be
evaluated on a periodic basis to determine their condition and may be maintained or
removed subject to findings and/or resources.
Portable Artwork is art that is not permanently attached or integrated to a wall, façade, or
other building surface. Portable Artwork is transportable and can be intended to be installed
on a short- or long-term basis. Portable Artwork typically includes framed paintings,
drawings or prints, photography, and 3-dimensional artwork such as sculptures.
Public Art means artistic and cultural facilities, objects and amenities, whether created
before or after the adoption of this policy, such as:
● Sculpture: Free standing, wall supported or suspended, kinetic, electronic or
mechanical in material or through a combination of permanent or temporary
materials;
● Murals or portable paintings: In any materials or variety of materials, with or without
collage or the addition of nontraditional materials and means;
● New media: Including but not limited to new technologies in light, sound, film,
holograms, virtual reality, digital media, and any hybrids of media and new genres;
● Other media: Neon, textiles, glass, earthworks, mosaics, tile, ceramics, printmaking,
collage, mixed media, assemblage, bronze, marble/stone, metal, encaustic, found
object, and installation;
● Standardized fixtures: If rendered by an Artist for unique or limited editions,
standardized fixtures including but not limited to, grates, streetlights, utility boxes,
signage and other design;
● Cultural Facilities: Public gallery, exhibition space, public performance spaces,
theaters, public artistic studio spaces, and public art education facilities;
● Cultural and artistic services;
● Performing Arts: Theatre, dance, music and performance art;
● Literary Art: Poetry readings, spoken word storytelling and creative writing;
● Media Art: Film, video, animation, or digital media;
● Education: Lectures, presentations and training in and about arts and culture;
● Special events: Parades, festivals and celebrations and;
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 5 OF 23
● Similar arts services, facilities and amenities as approved by the County.
The following facilities, services and community amenities are not considered Public Art as
defined in this Policy:
● Directional elements such as signage, or color coding except where these elements
are integral parts of the original work of art considered a Public Art pursuant to this
policy;
● Standard design, mass produced art objects, such as playground equipment,
fountains or statuary objects;
● Reproductions, by mechanical or other means, of original works of art, except in
cases of film, video, photography, printmaking or other media arts, where such
reproduction is authorized;
● Decorative, ornamental, or functional elements which are designed by a building
architect;
● Landscape architecture and landscape gardening except where these elements are
designed by an artist and/or are an integral part of an authorized Public Artwork work
of art by an artist;
● Artworks that contain commercial messaging of any kind.
Public Art Advisory Committee is an ad hoc committee consisting of no more than five
Contra Costa County staff designated by the County Administrator’s Office and the Directors
of the Department of Public Works and the Department of Conservation and Development,
or other departments as applicable. It is the role of the Committee to review the
recommendation(s) of the Public Art Selection Committee to ensure feasibility and
conformance with the Public Art Project goals and the Public Art Policy. The Public Art
Advisory Committee confines their review to the final Public Art Selection Committee
recommendation(s) when evaluating proposed County-commissioned Public Art.
The Public Art Advisory Committee has final review and acceptance of Public Art Project
recommendations and Donations with a value of up to $10,000. Public Art Projects and
Donations with a value of over $10,000 require the final approval and acceptance by the
Board of Supervisors. (See section XII. DONATIONS for valuation methods.)
If the Public Art Advisory committee finds an artist’s proposal for a Public Art Project
recommended by the Public Art Selection Committee is not feasible or advisable based on
identified circumstances, the proposal may be denied. In the case of denial, the Public Art
Project may be canceled, or a revised artist solicitation may be issued. The Public Art
Advisory Committee will meet on an ad hoc basis as needed. The Public Art Advisory
Committee will advise regarding Public Art Project development, acceptance of donations,
or other aspects of Public Art programs and/or projects as identified by the County
Administrator’s Office.
The Public Art Advisory Committee will invite and solicit technical or artistic advice from
entities with expertise in these areas as appropriate.
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Public Art Project Manager is selected by the County Administrator’s Office and has lead
oversight for a particular public art project. The Public Art Project Manager is responsible for
artist selection, artist relations, and project management to ensure the design development,
community engagement, fabrication, installation, budget, and timeline are met in accordance
with project goals. The Public Art Project Manager will facilitate the artist selection pr ocess
and the Public Art Selection Committee meetings but will not serve as a Public Art Selection
Committee member. The Public Art Project Manager may be a Contra Costa County staff
member, or an Art Consultant or Arts Council contracted for this purpose.
Public Art Proposals are community-generated proposals generated with community
support/partners for the installation or execution of Public Art in any of its forms on
County property regardless of the source of funding. Acceptance of proposals is
determined through the review and approval of the County Administrator’s Office and
the Public Art Advisory Committee. Procedures for Public Art Proposal consideration
are articulated in section XII. COMMUNITY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROPOSALS.
Public Art Selection Committee is an ad hoc project specific committee identified by
the County Administrator’s Office and/or through the direction of the Supervisor of the
district in which the project resides. The Public Art Selection Committee’s purpose is
to review artist qualifications and/or submissions to identify the artist(s) and artwork(s)
to be commissioned by the County in satisfaction of a particular Public Art
opportunity. The findings and recommendations of the Public Art Selection Committee
will be reviewed and approved by the Public Art Advisory Committee.
The Public Art Selection Committee may consist of but not be limited to a combination
of individuals, with a preference for individuals from Contra Costa County, from the
following representations:
● 1-2 Arts Professionals (curators, experienced public artists, specialized arts
administrators, and/or community artists)
● 2-3 Community Members (members of “friends of” groups or localized
community members living within close proximity of the final artwork).
● 1-2 Contra Costa County staff members who are from the Department that will
host the artwork and will experience the artwork on a regular basis.
● A member of the Public Art Advisory Committee
● A staff member from the County Supervisor’s Office in whose district the
Public Art will reside
● The Architect of the project (if applicable)
A payment stipend may be provided to each of the Arts Professionals and Community
Member participants in the Artist Selection Committee for their service in the review of artist
applications and proposals and for their attendance and participation in review meetings and
artist selection processes. Stipend amount is to be determined by the County
Administrator’s Office.
Public Art Project is a plan for the creation of Public Art, from inception through
completion, with the objective of fulfilling the purpose of the Public Art Policy.
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Permanent Public Art means Public Art created by an Artist and fabricated with materials
and methods with an expected lifespan of twenty-five years or more. The long-term lifespan
expectation incorporates materials and methods that have recorded longevity such as metal,
glass, concrete, terrazzo, stone, mosaic, tile or other similar products. Because of the
permanent nature of the work, artwork themes and concepts have an expectation of being
broader or more universal, so as to not become dated in 10 or 15 years. Permanent Public
Art projects result in artwork that will serve the community for many years and will become a
County asset that may increase in value through the years.
Temporary Public Art means Public Art, created by an Artist, or by an Artist-led community
participation process to design and/or fabricate an artwork intended to be exhibited for a
limited, articulated period of time, typically 5 years or less. Because of the transitory nature
of the work, contemporary themes can be explored, and diverse materials and methods can
be employed. Because of the flexibility of temporary artwork, lower funding resources are
generally required, and sites can be activated with artwork to assess community response
prior to consideration of a more budget intensive permanent artwork being commissioned at
the location.
Materials such as vinyl, paper, canvas, textiles, wood, found objects, etc. can be employed,
leaving a wide array of options for artists to consider. Murals will be considered Temporary
Public Art due to their susceptibility to damage or deterioration due to environmental
conditions.
Public Art Project Costs
● Allowable Public Art Project Costs: Funds allocated for a Public Art Project may be
used to fund the following expenditures: purchase or design and fabrication of Public
Art, fees and travel expenses for Artist services, transportation and installation of
Public Art, preservation, conservation, documentation, insurance, identification
plaques, community workshops and other reasonable expenses associated with the
initiation, development and completion of Public Art Projects. Fees paid to a limited
number of Artist finalists for development of concept ideas or concept designs as
part of the selection process are standard practice and allowable. Fees and related
expenses paid to finalists are deducted from the Public Art Project’s budget.
● Allowable Public Art Administrative Costs: The Public Art Project budget or other
County budgetary resources as approved by the Board of Supervisors may be used
on a project-by-project basis to fund the following expenditures: administration and
Public Art project management, selection panelist fees and other reasonable
expenses associated with the initiation, development, completion, public education,
documentation, and public information associated with Public Art Projects.
Public Art Report means an annual report to the Board of Supervisors issued by the County
Administrator’s Office which describes the Public Art activities for the previous fiscal year.
The report details new and ongoing Public Art Projects, Maintenance and Conservation
projects, and/or other activities undertaken during the year as applicable. This report may
also set priorities for the use of funds supporting Public Art in future years and will identify
projected Maintenance costs and associated budget recommendations for the upcoming
fiscal period.
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Utility Box Art is the enhancement of County owned utility boxes through the application of
artwork created by Artists. Utility Box Art programs traditionally have two approaches: either
the artwork is painted directly on to the utility boxes by the Artist, or the artwork is applied to
utility boxes as vinyl wraps printed with the Artist’s design. Utility Box Art will be considered
Temporary Public Art due to their susceptibility to damage or deterioration due to
environmental conditions.
V. IDENTIFICATION OF COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS
The commissioning of public art can have a significant effect on a location as an
environmental enhancement, source of pride, cultural significance, and place maker. Public
Art can reflect and highlight the culture, history, goals, and/or values of a community.
In order to ensure the artwork achieves the highest level of positive impact, care is to be
taken in the selection of locations. This shall include consideration of thematic and aesthetic
appropriateness, audience, community and cultural equity, and public access. Conditions
affecting ongoing maintenance and use of materials will be assessed to ensure community
enhancement longevity and the continuation of the asset’s value.
In order to establish the budget for a Public Art Project, the County Administrator’s Office
may identify and pool funds from a particular site’s Capital Project allocation, any other
improvement funds, or other available funding as approved by the Board of Supervisors. For
Public Art Projects to be pursued in tandem with capital improvement projects, every effort
will be made to identify and select Public Art Projects in a timely manner. Locations may
encompass parks, buildings, plazas, civic centers, roadway medians, traffic islands, and
bridges or other sites as identified by the County.
A. The County Administrator’s Office, in consultation with the Public Art Advisory
Committee, and Municipal Advisory Councils, as applicable, shall review and identify Public
Art Project budgets and sites for final review and approval by the Board of Supervisors.
Consideration will include, but not be limited to:
● Architectural opportunities for the placement of Public Art
● Pedestrian traffic or opportunities for maximum viewing
● A location that is safe, unobstructed, and accessible for maintenance
● A location that is publicly accessible to and available for use during normal
hours of business
● Compliance with any Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements
● Availability of funds to create an impactful artwork
● Potential for thematic resonance of artwork in relation to celebrating the
community’s history, services, culture, or leaders.
● Impact of aesthetic intervention. Will the location particularly benefit from this
intervention?
● Is there an equitable distribution of artwork in the community? Will identification
of an artwork location balance the entirety of the public art offerings in the
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County.
● Future development plans for the area
● Overall program goals
B. In tandem with the identification of a public facility for Public Art, care will be taken to
identify project type and opportunities for Public Art placement. Free-standing sculpture is
universally understood as a traditional solution when evaluating the placement and
commissioning of Public Art. However, the Public Art Advisory Committee shall consider
other forms, from artist designed functional objects to artwork integrated into architecture.
On-site locations for consideration for Public Art Projects may include, but are not limited to,
walls, floors, ceilings, windows, exterior facades, stairways, rooftops and patios.
If funding for the artwork is attached to a particular site relating to a capital improvement
development or other Public Works opportunity, site considerations within the development
shall include public access hours and visibility. If the site has a history of vandalism,
consideration shall be given to the height or accessibility of the artwork siting if placed on
the building structure or monitored locations such as lobbies or interior welcome areas.
C. The Public Art Advisory Committee may consider Temporary Public Art projects if the
available funds and resources, site conditions, and programmatic goals indicate this is a
desirable opportunity.
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VI. IMPLEMENTATION OF COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS
When a public art project is proposed by the County, the County Administrator’s
Office will work with the Board office in the district where art is being considered to
implement Public Art Projects, Conservation projects, community outreach and public
education efforts, and any other Public Art activities anticipated to be undertaken in
the upcoming fiscal period.
The Department of Public Works will coordinate the integration and delivery of Public
Art components within the construction schedule in capital or refurbishment projects
with the Public Art Project Manager. With the Public Art Project Manager, the
Department of Public Works will establish a timeline for the development of the Public
Art component that is consistent with the capital improvement project's timeline. The
timeline will identify specific milestones for review and set the requirements for
completion of the successive stages of conceptual design, final design, fabrication
and installation. In tandem with the Public Art Project Manager, the Department will
identify solutions to differences that may arise regarding project art components.
For Permanent Public Art Projects, a Public Art Selection Committee will be identified
by staff and/or through direction from the Supervisor’s office in the associated district
of the project. The County Administrator’s Office will identify the Public Art Project
Manager for each new Public Art Project. The Public Art Selection Committee will
meet to review and approve the following:
● Artist proposals at the conceptual and final design phases. In some cases, the
conceptual design review may take place as part of the Artist selection
process. After comments are received at each phase, the Public Art Project
Manager will work with the Artist to refine the design. If the Artist is not in
agreement with the Public Art Selection Committee’s recommendations, the
Public Art Project Manager will mediate discussions to arrive at a consensus
among all parties. In each case, if revisions are called for, the revised
conceptual or final design will be presented to the Public Art Selection
Committee for approval.
● Proposed alterations to the final design. The Artist’s contract will contain
language specifying that no change to the approved final design may take
place without written permission.
VII. ARTIST SELECTION FOR COUNTY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROJECTS
Projects may be selected through an open Request for Qualifications (RFQ) or Request for
Proposal (RFP) process. Other processes such as a limited invitation or a curatorial process
that invites Artists’ proposals may be enacted under the direction of the Board of
Supervisors. The identification of an artist shall be conducted in an open, transparent
process. Absent mitigating circumstances identified by the County Administrator’s Office
requiring an alternate Artist commissioning process, as a Permanent Public Art commission
opportunity arises, it will be executed in a two-step process of artist selection. The following
articulates the Two-Step Artist Selection Process:
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1. Advertisement and issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) wherein the project’s
budget, parameters, artwork priorities and goals are articulated with the artist selection
criteria, scoring breakdown, and expectations regarding the selected artist’s experience,
interest, and past work.
Requested qualifications may include but not be limited to image samples of past relevant
work, artist statement of interest (including artist statement of artistic practice and relevance
to project opportunity), and artist resume/CV.
Under the direction and facilitation of the Public Art Project Manager, the Public Art
Selection Committee will identify and select 3-4 Artist finalists from the review of the RFQ
applicants based on the stated criteria and submission materials.
2. Selected Artist finalists will be directed to provide a project proposal, typically within 4 to 8
weeks depending on the complexity of the project. Artist finalists shall be provided with the
scoring criteria for evaluation of the proposals.
The final proposal requirements are to be approved by the County Administrator’s Office.
Artist finalists’ proposals may include but not be limited to the following:
● A narrative of the concept, design sketches and drawings (in-situ if possible),
with dimensions and materials.
● A preliminary budget, the fabrication and installation timeline, and any
noteworthy considerations such as site preparation.
● A preliminary Community Engagement plan anticipated to be provided in
tandem with the project. The plan will contain, at a minimum:
o An explanation of how the Community Engagement plan will inform
and/or inspire the Artist's design of the artwork;
o An indication of the duration and location, and a preliminary
description of proposed Community Engagement events over the
course of the project;
o A proposed budget for the Community Engagement.
It is recognized that professional practices require that artists be paid for their work, and the
development of a proposal requires considerable research, time, and effort. Artist finalists
may be compensated for their proposals. The amount of the proposal compensation will be
identified by the County Administrator’s Office based on best practices as appropriate to the
Public Art project budget, typically between $1,000 and $5,000.
Criteria for the review of Public Art proposals are designed to ensure the artwork will
encompass the highest standards of excellence and sustainability and may include but not
be limited to the following:
● Artistic Merit: Artistic Originality of concept and artistic vision; the degree to
which the work engages the viewer emotionally, and intellectually; the quality of
craftsmanship or mastery of skills and techniques.
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● Relevant Skills & Experience: The assessed ability of an artist to successfully
implement a proposed project.
● Meet Project Goals: The proposed artwork (or the assessed ability of an artist
to design a proposal) meets the specific goals of the project as defined in the
RFQ.
● Site Appropriateness: The proposed artwork is appropriate in terms of scale,
media, design or imagery and is judged to be relevant within the context of the
surrounding community, and is compatible with the mission and operations of
the location receiving the artwork.
● Contra Costa County Connection: Proposal highlights a connection to the
County through community engagement, Artistic background/experience.
The Public Art Selection Committee will review proposals as presented by each artist
through an in-person or online meeting, deliberate, score, and select the recommended
artist and artwork. The recommended Artist proposal will be reviewed for approval by the
Public Art Advisory Committee. Public Art Projects with a budget of $10,000 or more will
require Board of Supervisors’ approval.
A variation to the above process is allowable when extensive community engagement is
identified by the County Administrator’s Office as vital to the artwork design and the
community engagement process is a significant element to the Public Art Project. This can
occur when the schedule permits and issues are present that have resulted in a community
voiced need for inclusion, and artistic expression and community representation require
navigation in an integrated manner. This type of project requires the design to be developed
through an intensive community process. As such, it is not feasible for the design proposal
to be developed in advance of Artist selection.
Artist selection of this type would have a similar RFQ process as outlined above. However,
the required submission requirements within the RFQ will be adjusted as appropriate and
will require a narrative about the type of community process the Artist envisions to develop
the design, their approach to design, an indication of their interest in the project, and a listing
of previous projects they completed wherein the community engagement was paramount to
the artwork design process. The submission will require examples of the artist’s current art
practice or past work.
As opposed to a proposal requirement and review, in this type of project the Artist Selection
Committee will interview the Artist finalists and include questions to ascertain the community
appropriateness of the artist’s process. The committee will utilize this information to select
the most appropriate artist for the commission.
VIII. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Paramount to the Public Art Program is service to the residents of Contra Costa County. By
building arts education and participation opportunities into Public Art Projects, a sense of
community ownership can be acknowledged and uplifted. Such activities can generate
broader community appreciation of public art and recognition of the role of public art in
reflecting the community's values.
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The County shall incorporate Community Engagement as defined in section IX.
DEFINITIONS, as part of each Public Art Project as appropriate. To meet this goal, the
County Administrator’s Office will ensure that there is community representation on artist
selection panels and artist interaction with the community. Involvement with the local
Municipal Advisory Council is advisable, as appropriate.
The Community Engagement plan should be developed in conjunction with the overall
project construction schedule and budget such that its implementation does not slow down
the concept design or any other phases of development and completion of the art. Examples
include, but are not limited to, observations of the proposal site, and activities that
encourage personal interaction with community members, and formal and informal
interviews or conversations held in order to learn about the community's culture, and
important issues facing the community.
Community participation may be incorporated into the plan to engage members of the
public, County employees, and others who will utilize the site through activities in which
such people are likely to offer their perceptions, experiences, and knowledge in a way that
will meaningfully inform the Public Art Project. Examples include, but are not limited to,
activities demonstrating art and/or art process, such as presentations, workshops, and
meetings.
IX. COUNTY-INITIATED MURALS
Murals have been embraced as a valued art form by a diverse array of cultures and
communities throughout history. They can celebrate the culture, leaders, and communities
through abstract or figurative imagery or any number of approaches conceivable. The
possibilities are unlimited.
Murals are an art form with a rich history and deep appreciation. The expected vs. actual
lifespan of a mural is dependent on several factors, and realities can be vastly different from
project plans. Murals expected to remain intact for generations can come up against
conditions requiring their removal after a limited lifespan, and murals developed with a
limited expectation of longevity can enhance a sense of community for many years.
A. Projects for Murals to be placed on County property should be evaluated and
commissioned using the same or similar criteria and considerations as other Public Art
Projects. In addition, the suitability of the wall should be assessed to receive the mural
through a report by commissioning an art conservator with murals expertise to confirm the
wall’s long-term suitability and to provide recommendations for wall preparation and
materials.
B. Murals commissioned for placement on County property will be placed on a well-
prepared wall and have an anti-graffiti coating applied that is maintainable by the County.
Varnish or other coatings or finishes that are not specifically designed as graffiti abatement
products as part of a graffiti removal system do not comply with this requirement.
C. The Mural should be evaluated every five years to assess the condition to evaluate if the
artwork should be maintained or removed. If the mural is in poor condition and the County
does not have the resources for a restoration, the applicable artist’s rights laws (Visual
Artists Rights Act/VARA and California Arts Preservation Act/CAPA) require that artists be
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provided with 90 days advance notice of its removal. VARA and CAPA rights also apply if
the County needs to remove the mural for any non-related reason, including building
renovation or construction. The five-year review process and expected lifespan should be
articulated in the County’s agreement with the artist.
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X. UTILITY BOX ART
Utility Box Art programs traditionally have two approaches: either the artwork is painted
directly on to the utility boxes by the Artist, or the artwork is applied to utility boxes as vinyl
wraps printed with the Artist’s design. Utility Box Art enhances common traffic control utility
boxes and brings vibrant colorful artwork to the streetscape.
As directed by the Board of Supervisors, the County Administrator’s Office in tandem with
the Department of Public Works may develop a Utility Box Program that invites Artists to
submit designs for consideration and oversees the development and placement of the
artwork either through direct painting or vinyl wrapping.
Designs submitted to a Utility Box Program will be selected by a Public Art Selection
Committee assembled for this purpose, with final approval of designs by the Public Art
Advisory Committee.
The Utility Box Program will be developed that identifies the type of art fabrication, Artist
design stipends, application guidelines, longevity, and procedures.
Development of the Utility Box Art program will include consideration and selection of the
artwork fabrication and installation procedure. An assessment will evaluate the attributes of
a program that selects an Artist’s design that the Artist paints directly to a utility box surface,
compared with the selection of an Artist design that is translated to a vinyl wrap and installed
by specialized contractors.
XI. ARTISTS’ RIGHTS
Commissioning Permanent Public Art will result in the County obtaining ownership of Public
Artworks as objects, with all the associated rights and responsibilities.
While the County as the commissioning agent will have ownership of a work of art as an
object, this does not necessarily extend to ownership of the image and copyrights as
articulated in the federal Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) or the California Arts Preservation
Act (CAPA).
The federal Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) and the California Arts Preservation Act
(CAPA) laws provide for a series of artists’ rights including the rights of authorship and rights
surrounding the removal, alteration, or destruction of artwork.
Any artist selected for a Public Art Project shall enter into a written agreement with the
County. County Counsel will review Artist’s agreements to ensure that they comply with the
VARA, CAPA laws, and other laws, as required, or include exceptions as needed to ensure
public safety. County Counsel’s review of Artist’s agreements will include the addition of
other clauses as needed to ensure the County’s ability to administer the Public Art program.
XII. PUBLIC ART DONATIONS
The following areas and issues will be considered in the acceptance of artwork donations by
the County Administrator’s Office and the Public Art Advisory Committee. The County will
not accept a donation of artwork until all funds for its development, fabrication, installation
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and foreseeable Maintenance have been secured from the Donor or approved by the Board
of Supervisors as being funded by the County. Final Approval of Public Art donations valued
at more than $10,000.00 require the Board of Supervisors’ Approval. Monetary donations
towards public art projects will follow the County's existing policy on Gifts and Donations.
For artwork to be considered for Donation, it must be pre-existing Permanent Public Art or
Portable Artwork as defined in IV. DEFINITIONS.
The following criteria may be utilized as applicable in assessing the acceptance of an art
donation:
● Does the Artwork uplift an artist or artists living in Contra Costa County?
● Are there limitations that restrict the size and number of donated items?
● What is the condition of the artwork(s)?
● The artwork highlights a Contra Costa County artist, collection, and/or cultural
expression.
● The artwork supports the goals of the art collection and would contribute
positively to the County’s public art, meeting the standards for Public Art
commissioned by the County.
● The artwork is of high quality and aesthetic excellence.
● There is an identified location to site the artwork if it requires a public
installation, or there is a program or mechanism to display the artwork if it is a
portable piece.
● The scale, form, context, and design of the artwork are appropriate for the
setting and audience.
● The donor has committed to cover all applicable costs associated with permits,
bonding, insurance, transportation and installation of the artwork or the County
has committed the resources to cover these applicable items.
● The future maintenance and conservation need of the artwork is understood and
the County has identified the resources to attend to these requirements.
● The legal considerations of ownership, copyright, liabilities, maintenance, and
deaccessioning are understood and acceptable to the County, as reviewed by
County Counsel.
● The artwork supports an equitable collection inventory, allowing for a diverse
range of Contra Costa County artists to be represented, considering if there are
already multiple donations of the same artist’s work.
A donation application will be established to capture the relevant information for an informed
decision and to identify any additional considerations to the donation offer.
The following identifies main areas to be considered in determining acceptance of a
donation.
A. As has been discussed, there is more than one type of ownership as related to art, and
this needs to be considered in the acceptance of an artwork. While a donor may have
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ownership of a work of art as an object, this may not extend to the donor having ownership
of the image and copyrights as articulated in the federal Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) or
the California Arts Preservation Act (CAPA).
To establish the donor’s ownership of the artwork as an object, a donation application will be
developed with a requirement for information about the provenance and procurement of the
object, including documentation such as a receipt or other proof of ownership. Copies of any
agreements the owner has with the artist or gallery should be included if applicable.
The value of the object should be established as part of the consideration of acceptance.
This value can be established through:
● Appraisal Report: An appraisal report including, but not limited to, dollar amount
value, description, disclaimers, and additional support for valuation conclusions
by a certified third-party appraiser affiliated with at least one of the four appraisal
organizations: Appraisers Association of America, the American Society for
Appraisers, Appraisal Foundation, or the International Society of Appraisers.
● A receipt for the purchase of the artwork.
● Other documentation establishing the value of similar artworks by the same
artist.
This valuation is essential as the artwork will become a physical asset for the County, and
as such, a documented value is needed for asset accounting. Also, donors commonly
request a letter from the County acknowledging the donation with the value indicated for
their use as a tax donation. The County should have confirmation of the value for this
purpose.
B. While a donor may have ownership of the artwork as an object, the artist may have
retained the copyright ownership as established by the VARA and CAPA laws. The
application should include artist information including contact, resume or bio, birth/death
dates, as applicable, and any known copyright information as available. This is particularly
important if the donation is a work to be installed as a permanent public artwork as the artist
should be notified of the donation and location of the installation.
The application should indicate the copyright owner of the object. If the donor is the
copyright owner, the application should include documentation of this and should ask if the
donor intends to transfer the copyright to the County should the donation be accepted.
All such information from the donor shall be shared with County Counsel on receipt, so
County Counsel can identify if and how the acceptance of the artwork and installation will
make the County subject to any applicable VARA and CAPA notifications or copyright
requirements in the future. It is recommended that the County Counsel provide advice
regarding these considerations and requirements prior to the acceptance of the donation.
C. The application should identify the materials and any known Maintenance or
Conservation needs. A condition report should be provided by the donor to identify any
issues and immediate or future costs associated with keeping the artwork in good condition.
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D. If the artwork is a large sculpture or other public artwork, it is important for the County to
understand the costs to transport the artwork and install it at the desired location. Questions
to consider are the need for any footings or special attachment systems, permits, insurance,
storage, installation, and any conservation and maintenance needed in the immediate
future. It should be established if these costs and the responsibility for this activity will be
borne by the donor or if the County is expected to handle these costs and the scope of work
to see to the full completion the installation.
E. In addition to the above information the application should request any exhibition history,
edition certifications or other pertinent information about the artwork as applicable and
available.
XIII. COMMUNITY-INITIATED PUBLIC ART PROPOSALS
Community Initiated Public Art Proposals are proposed by non-County entities pursuing
Public Art to be placed or be executed on County property. The following procedures differ
from the processes and procedures outlined for County initiated and funded Public Art. The
requirements assume the County is positioned to accept or provide permission for Public Art
that has been identified, developed, and/or selected outside of an established process
without County oversight. The following requirements will provide assurance the Public Art
conforms to similar standards and expectations as County initiated and funded projects.
Public Art programming can include an array of arts and culture special installations,
performances, or other arts and culture activities. It is expected that the applicant will
provide the needed resources such as funding, in-kind equipment or supplies, personnel, or
other applicable elements required to successfully mount the proposed program.
Section III. APPLICABILITY defines the Public Art proposed project placements that are
subject to the requirements of this policy. The following procedures include proposals
initiated or funded by other government entities, or by outside sponsors, such as community
artists, organizations or commercial enterprises. In considering approval, the Public Art
Advisory Committee will evaluate proposals within the context of its Vision as identified in
the 2024 Arts & Culture Master Plan.
The following articulates the process for obtaining the Public Art Advisory Committee’s
approval for a temporary or permanent installation of artwork or Public Art programming on
County property or funded by the County. Artwork that is proposed as a donation to be
owned by the County are not subject to this section but are required to comply with section
XI. DONATIONS.
Note: With the exception of funds awarded on a competitive basis through a County
program, the County Administrator’s Office and the Public Art Advisory Committee cannot
provide financial or staff support for the project. It is incumbent on the project sponsor to
cover all costs associated with the project.
Proposals will be selected that are broad and diverse in appeal and allow the community an
opportunity to experience artistic expression representative of a wide range of disciplines,
styles, themes, and cultural practices.
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Submitted Public Art Proposals will be reviewed initially by the Supervisor’s office in whose
District the proposed project will be located for referral to the Public Art Advisory Committee
for consideration. Public Art Proposals will be considered quarterly on a schedule identified
by the Public Art Advisory Committee. Please note, incomplete proposals will not be
considered.
Selected Public Art Proposals may be required to adhere to insurance or other requirements
appropriate to the type of program and/or venue.
A. The applicant must submit a completed Community Initiated Public Art Proposal that
includes the following as applicable:
● Public Art Proposal Form
● A summary of experience for each lead visual or performing artists involved in
the program.
● Background information for the organization or group making the proposal.
● Digital images of previous artwork or performance samples; either as a slide
show, PDF, website, or a list with at least 5 but no more than 10 images with
title, media, size, and date. Up to 5 video or audio samples of no more than 3
minutes duration each can be included in lieu of the images as appropriate.
● Project budget and services sheet indicating the resources required to
successfully mount the project with an indication of funding or in-kind services
being provided.
B. Criteria for approval will be based on the following:
● There should be a compelling reason to site the exhibition on County property,
such as the relevance of the Public Art Proposal within the natural,
architectural, cultural, historical, social/political or environmental context of the
site.
● The Public Art should have merit as a work(s) of art, independent of other
considerations.
● The Public Art should be judged to enhance the public’s experience of the site.
● The Public Art may recognize an equitable distribution of commissions,
acquisitions, and exhibitions from Artists throughout Contra Costa County.
● The Public Art should be an opportunity to expose the public to diverse artists
from Contra Costa County’s multi-ethnic and multi-cultural population.
● The Public Art may highlight and educate the public to diverse artistic styles,
scale, and media.
● The Public Art should not contradict the County’s values of environmental
sustainability, accessibility, and cultural inclusiveness.
● The proposed Public Art should be appropriate in scale, media and context with
its intended display location.
● The Public Art has evidence of community support and/or engagement.
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 20 OF 23
● The Public Art should be judged to be able to withstand unprotected display in
an outdoor environment and be able to be maintained by the applicant/sponsor
throughout the public display period.
● The Public Art must not present a safety hazard. It must comply with all
applicable building codes and disability access requirements.
● The proposed Public Art must be evaluated to be feasible, with convincing
evidence of the applicant/sponsor’s ability to mount the exhibit as proposed.
● Factors to be considered include, but are not limited to: project budget,
timeline, the artists’ experience, soundness of materials,
● The proposed Public Art must not impede the typical uses of the site.
● Project sponsors must be willing to pay all costs associated with the Public Art,
including any required insurance and permit fees, as applicable.
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 21 OF 23
C. Community-initiated Proposals for Murals on County property require the identification of
an entity that will provide maintenance for the mural and adherence to the stated Public
Art Proposals policy requirements as applicable, with the addition of the following
information being provided:
● Incentive for placing a Mural at this location;
● Indication of why the placement of this Mural design will enhance the
aesthetics of the area;
● Description of the proposed design with a sketch or drawing;
● Description of the Mural design development process including any Community
Engagement or execution participation completed or planned;
● Indication of how the Mural will benefit the neighborhood and/or community;
● Expected lifespan of the Mural;
● Fabrication Information:
o Description of the wall preparation process (Wall preparation is
required prior to painting the wall. Preparation can include water
blasting, sand blasting, scrubbing with wire brush, or other process as
applicable and approved by the County.)
o Indication of the primer or wall sealant to be used.
o Identification of the type and brand name of the paint. (High pigment
artist’s colors are highly recommended.)
o Indication of the type or brand name of the anti-graffiti coating to be
applied (Varnish or other sealants not specifically manufactured as
anti-graffiti coatings do not meet this requirement).
If the Mural is accepted, the applicant will be required to enter into an agreement regarding
the artwork design, fabrication, site preparation, expected lifespan, artist’s rights, anti-graffiti
coating, and maintenance responsibility and expectations.
XIV. DEACCESSION OF ART
The deaccession of Public Art should be governed by procedures to ensure such decisions
are carefully considered and in compliance with applicable laws.
As disposal of artworks is generally irrevocable, deaccessioning should be a deliberate
procedure. County shall not dispose of works simply because its original aesthetics are not
popular and shall not dispose of works whose worth might not yet be recognized.
A. The County Administrator’s Office must authorize any relocation or removal of artwork
utilizing the following processes and requirements:
● The Board of Supervisors will approve the Deaccession of Art.
● Staff of the Office of the County Administrator’s Office shall prepare a
report for the Board of Supervisors prior to the consideration of the request
for deaccession of an artwork including;
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 22 OF 23
o Reasons for the suggested deaccessioning;
o Review by the County Counsel;
o Acquisition method and cost;
o Informed estimate of the current value of the artwork;
o Public input and agency feedback on the artwork
o Any valid warranties regarding the artwork
o Suggested and alternate courses of action.
● The immediate removal of art if it represents a safety hazard to the public
may be ordered by the County Administrator’s Office.
● When an artwork is to be removed for relocation or repair, only authorized
representatives or contractors of the County are to handle the artwork;
● In the event that an artwork is significantly damaged, stolen or completely
destroyed, the County staff will notify the County Administrator’s Office, the
artist, and if appropriate, the County Sheriff will be contacted;
● The artist(s) whose artwork is being considered for decommissioning will
be notified by reasonable means in compliance with the applicable VARA
and CAPA artist’s rights laws.
● The County Administrator’s Office may recommend any of the following
courses of action as a result of a deaccessioning review. The Board/staff
shall not be limited to these courses of action, but may suggest new
methods, as may be appropriate, given by a particular set of
circumstances.
o Relocation of the artwork
o The sale or trade of the artwork
o Offer to the artist(s) the opportunity to take back the artwork.
o Advertise the sale of the artwork by auction or other public sale; or
o Dispose of the artwork or remainder of the artwork in an appropriate
and practical way when other options have not resulted in the
disposal of the artwork.
● Any net proceeds from artwork disposal shall be returned to an appropriate
Public Art Program account to acquire (through the standard Public Art
processes) or maintain other Public Art within the County’s Public Art
Collection.
● Disposal by any means of any County owned art shall conform to legal
requirements.
The following acknowledged criteria will be utilized to consider and approve deaccession:
● The artwork’s present condition poses a safety hazard to the public.
● The artwork has been damaged or has deteriorated to the point that it can
no longer be represented to be the original artwork.
● The restoration of the artwork’s structural or aesthetic integrity is
technically not feasible, or the expense of restoring it exceeds the
available funding of the County for restoring the specific artwork.
● The architectural support (building, wall, plaza) is to be destroyed and the
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC ART POLICY - DRAFT 8.30.24 PAGE 23 OF 23
artwork cannot be removed intact for relocation.
● The use of the particular public space may have changed, and/or the
artwork may have lost its contextual meaning, and it cannot be re-sited, or
re-siting the artwork would be inappropriate.
● The artwork requires excessive and inappropriate conservation and/or
maintenance or has faults of design or workmanship which can be termed
inherent vice.
● An artwork is not, or is rarely, on display because of lack of a suitable site.
● The condition or security of the artwork cannot be reasonably guaranteed
in its present location.
● The artwork was not installed or fabricated as proposed, is incomplete, or
does not meet the requirements of the commission.
● The artwork does not meet the goals of the collection.
● Removal has been requested by the artist in writing and it has been
determined by County Administrator’s Office to be a reasonable request.
● The artwork has reached the end of its original anticipated lifespan.
● The artwork is proved to be inauthentic or in violation of existing copyright
laws.
● The artwork has received documented and ongoing adverse reaction from
community members where the artwork is located, and the Board of
Supervisors has determined the artwork no longer reflects the values of
the community.
XV. MAINTENANCE OF ART IN THE COLLECTION
Contra Costa County is at the beginning stages of assembling a public art collection. The
single most important aspect in ensuring the value of these assets is the regular
maintenance of the artworks. The ongoing maintenance of Public Art is a critical aspect of
sustaining a positive public dialogue and supporting cultural expression. A maintenance plan
is typically included in an artist contract.
The annual Public Art Report provided to the Board of Supervisors will include an
assessment of the maintenance needs of the collection, associated estimated costs, and will
include a budget allocation request for the upcoming fiscal year.
Maintenance plans are required as part of the Public Art Plan for Public Art Projects.
Public Art Conservation efforts that go beyond routine maintenance should engage an art
conservation specialist, and such cost shall be included in the Public Art Report.
If artwork is created as a component of a designated Capital Improvement Project and the
funding source permits, the County Administrator’s Office may choose to set aside and
expend up to 10% of the total Public Art Project allocation for each project for maintenance
and conservation purposes.
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Implementation of County-Initiated
Public Art Projects
A Public Art Project opportunity, facility location, and budget is identified by the County
Administrator’s Office in tandem with the Public Art Advisory Committee, in discussion with the
District’s Supervisorial Office and Municipal Advisory Council(s) as applicable.
The Public Art Project is approved and funded by the Board of Supervisors
Timeline for the Public Art Project is developed by the Administrator’s Office in
tandem with the Department of Public Works
A Public Art Project Manager is Selected to oversee the Artist Selection process
and overall project delivery.
A Public Art Selection Committee is
Identified
A Request for Qualifications is
Issued to Artists
The Public Art Selection Committee reviews Artist’s submissions and selects
Artist finalists to proceed to the Request for Proposals stage.
The Public Art Selection Committee Reviews Proposals and selects the Artist and
Proposal for the commission recommendation.
The Public Art Advisory Committee reviews the recommended Artist and Proposal
for Approval.
The Board of Supervisors has Final Approval of the Artist’s Commission.
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UTILITY ART BOX PROGRAM
HANDBOOK
CITY OF COSTA MESA
2022
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P a g e | 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW & MISSION ......................................................................................................... 2
BOX SPECIFICATION & LOCATIONS ............................................................................... 2
VINYL WRAPS ........................................................................................................................... 3
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR PROCESS ............................................................................... 3
CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSIONS-ARTISTS ......................................................................... 4
ARTIST HONORARIUM ......................................................................................................... 5
CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSIONS-SPONSORSHIPS .......................................................... 5
REVIEW & EVALUATION PROCESS .................................................................................. 6
APPLICATION TIMELINE ...................................................................................................... 6
UTILITY ART BOX PROGRAM APPLICATION ............................................................... 7
UABP SPONSORSHIP APPLICATION .............................................................................. 10
CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................................................. 12
CITY OF COSTA MESA
UTILITY ART BOX PROGRAM HANDBOOK
OVERVIEW & MISSION
OVERVIEW
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The City of Costa Mesa owns over 120 utility boxes at signalized intersections throughout the city and
is dedicated to incorporating art into public spaces. A Utility Box Art Program was launched in early
2015 to spotlight a handful of utility boxes as beautiful art pieces. The city currently has over 40 utility
art boxes that display artwork from local artists.
MISSION
To support local artists and to create an opportunity for them to showcase their talents, while
promoting vibrant and memorable public art throughout the City of the Arts that enhances the urban
landscape.
BOX SPECIFICATIONS & LOCATIONS
City of Costa Mesa Traffic Signal Map
The City Traffic Signal Map indicates utility boxes that are spread out around the city wherever there
are traffic signals.
Utility boxes owned and managed by the city are typically 40 inches wide, about 48 inches in height
and 30 inches deep. Generally the city of
Costa Mesa utility boxes are larger in size
than other private company utility boxes.
VINYL WRAPS
The city of Costa Mesa uses vinyl wraps to
cover each box with an artist submitted
design and or artwork. Vinyl wraps are a
polyester film with a clear gloss that has an
anti-graffiti overlaminate. Once a design is
approved through application process (see
below), vinyl wraps take 4 to 8 weeks to
install.
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Why use vinyl wraps instead of painting directly onto the utility box?
1. Graffiti Deterrent
Vinyl wraps deter and repel graffiti, in part because it's hard to paint over the surface and in
part because it's hard to see any spray painted or carved in symbols outside the artwork.
2. Long Lasting
On average, vinyl wraps typically last three years. The colors fade a lot slower than a typical
house paint or acrylic.
3. Quality and General Appearance
The appearance of each utility art box holds up nicely and the colors remain vibrant over time.
They can also be cleaned easily.
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR PROCESS
• Utility Art Boxes will be inspected annually to assess for damage and or replacement
depending on the age of the artwork.
• Repairs and maintenance needs can be caused by; extensive graffiti, vandalism, torn or ripped
vinyl, damaged signal casings, failure of internal electrical components, or subject to
mechanical maintenance upgrades.
• The City of Costa Mesa will manage all repairs and replacements for up to 3 years for each
utility art box. The City reserves the right to modify or remove artwork should a utility/traffic
control box require maintenance, modifications or repairs as a result of unanticipated
damages.
• The City shall notify the affected artist(s) when the vinyl wrap on the utility box needs to be
replaced or removed.
Duration Repairs Replacement
Utility Art Boxes submitted by
artists shall be on display for a
recommended period of 3 years.
Each box will be reviewed on a case
by case basis for repairs. Repairs
will be paid for by the city until the
The replacement schedule of
the exterior shall be determined
by both the extent of
maintenance and or repairs
required at each location. If
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wrap is replaced and for up to three
years.
necessary, the vinyl wrap will
be removed until a replacement
artwork can be found, as
funding permits.
Sponsored Utility Art Boxes will
remain for up to 3 years with an
option for renewal.
Any repairs for sponsored boxes will
be paid for by the city within the 3
year period.
Maintenance Costs:
$200 to remove or unwrap a box
$80 for setup and $20 per square
foot for repairs to the applied
graphic
If a sponsored box needs to be
replaced or altered, the sponsor
will have the option to pay the
fee again and refresh the design
or the vinyl wrap can be
removed at no extra cost to the
sponsor.
CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSIONS- ARTISTS
ARTIST ELIGIBILITY & BASIC INFORMATION
The Utility Art Box program is open to individual artists, a team of artists or community groups who
have the vision and skills required to create a visually engaging image or design for a vinyl wrap.
1. Qualifying applicants must reside in Orange County.
2. Each applicant must provide a high quality photo(s) of their proposed artwork (1 to 5 high
resolution, 300 dpi, art design files with the dimensions of 40 inches wide by 20 inches high).
3. Each applicant will be asked to provide a short biography written in the third person for the
website map.
Recommendations for submitting a design:
• Ensure that artwork is appropriate for all ages- no political, religious or discriminatory subject
matter will be considered.
• Consider using bright colors and heavy outlines, as they look best from the afar.
• Envision how the design will translate onto a box shape and if it will be visually interesting
from all angles and directions.
Utility Box locations are chosen by city staff but suggestions are welcome.
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ARTIST HONORARIUM & SUPPORT
ARTIST HONORARIUM
Selected artists shall be compensated for their submitted artwork and or conceptual renderings and
receive an honorarium upon the completion of the vinyl wrap installation. The amount shall cover
costs for the artist's time spent in creating the artwork, submitting an application and occasionally
being available for interviews or photo opportunities to be used for promotional purposes. The artist
will not be responsible for installing the vinyl wrap. The honorarium for one utility box is $300 and
artists can submit one application per year, pending available funding.
ARTIST INFORMATION
Photos of artwork and or designs on completed utility boxes will be displayed on an interactive Google
map on the City of Costa Mesa website. Information about the artist will accompany the image of the
completed Utility Art Box.
Potential information to be included (optional):
• Artist Name
• Artist Short Biography
• Website or Social Media
• Title of the Artwork
• Box Description
• Box Location
• Box Number
• Box Year
Utility Art Box images will be also be used intermittingly throughout the City of Costa Mesa social
media and media channels.
CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSIONS-SPONSORSHIPS
SPONSORSHIPS COST & TERMS
The sponsorship program will permit a sponsor to place a name and or logo on a utility box
alongside a work of art or design and at the same time generate funds for an artist honorarium for the
artists that participate in the Utility Art Box Program. The donation is tax deductible.
1. The cost to sponsor a box for up to 3 years will be between $1,500 to $2,000.
2. Branding on the box cannot exceed 20% of printable space and must blend into the artwork or
design. The intent of the box is not to create a business billboard but a tastefully appealing
piece of art that meets standards set by the Cultural Arts Committee and city staff.
3. Organizations and businesses are encouraged to solicit a design or artwork from a local artist.
Please refer to the Artist Eligibility paragraph above for more details about the application
process and the materials required.
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Some things to consider before participating:
• No political, religious, or discriminatory subject matter will be considered.
• Regular maintenance such as cleaning or removal of graffiti will be the responsibility of the
City of Costa Mesa for up to 3 years which includes damage; such as severe scratching or
ripping. If the damage is significant the vinyl wrap will be removed completely at no cost to
the sponsor.
REVIEW & EVALUATION PROCESS
Utility Art Box applications are reviewed by staff who will then forward all complete and eligible
applications to a committee or commission for evaluation and approval.
Artists and organizations will be notified by email, with a timeline for installation, if their design has
be selected.
Approval Criteria:
The criteria used to select eligible artists and artwork and or designs shall be evaluated accordingly:
• Evaluation of artistic excellence
• Appropriateness of scale, form, content and design
• Relationship to the social, cultural and or historical identity of a location
• Artist or organization residency in Orange County
APPLICATION TIMELINE
APPLICATION CYCLE
Utility Art Box Program funding allows for 10 new or replacement art boxes annually.
Online application opens annually on July 1st and will be open for new artwork and designs until
January 1st of each year or until 10 new designs or works of art have been selected, whichever comes
first.
Vinyl wraps will be installed beginning in January until June of each year.
CITY OF COSTA MESA
UTILITY ART BOX PROGRAM APPLICATION
Also available online
ARTIST INFORMATION
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First Name ______________________________ Last Name __________________________
Street Address _________________________________________________________________
City, ST Zip Code ___________________________________________________________________
Email _____________________________________________________________________________
Phone ____________________________________Facebook URL: _______________________
Organization Name (if applicable): ____________________________________________________
Web Site URL: ______________________________Instagram URL: __________________
Please provide a short biography (required). You may also attach a CV with education, exhibitions,
gallery representation, etc. (optional).
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
ARTWORK INFORMATION
Artwork Title:
This may be used, in whole or in part, for promotion if your application is approved and will be placed on the
Utility Box Google map.
___________________________________________________________________________
Artwork Description:
Write in a brief description of a few words that address the basic visual elements of your piece. This may be
used, in whole or in part, for promotion if your application is approved and will be placed on the Utility Box
Google map.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Artwork Medium:
How did you make this? What materials were used? This may be used, in whole or in part, for promotion if
your application is approved and will be placed on the Utility Box Google map.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Please email or upload photos of your artwork:
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P a g e | 8
Envision how the design will translate onto a box shape and if it will be visually interesting from all angles and
directions.
Artwork submissions must be a high resolution (300 dpi) ¬file with the dimensions of 20 inches high and 40
inches wide. Maximum size allowed is 5 MB. Allowed types: gif, .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .rtf,
.pdf, .txt
You may upload more than one photo of the artwork you would like to be placed on the utility box:
Photo 1:________________________
Photo 2:________________________
Photo 3: _______________________
GENERAL INFORMATION
Each artist is permitted 1 submission per year. An artist honorarium in the amount of $300 will be
awarded after the vinyl wrap has been completed and the artwork is visible to the public. Artists will
be notified and a check will be mailed. In order for a payout, the City will need a W-9 filed. Fill out
and email or upload as part of your application.
W-9 Form
Would you be interested in participating in a brief interview for City of Costa Mesa social media
platforms to help promote and bring awareness to the program? Please circle one.
Y or N
Other:_____________________________________________
ARTS DIRECTORY
__ I give permission to include my name, social media information, biography and images of my
artwork in the City of Costa Mesa’s Arts Directory on the City’s website.
If you’d like to be a part of the Arts Directory, please upload or email an image you would like to
feature below:
Featured Image:_________________________
Maximum size allowed is 5 MB. Allowed types: gif, .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .rtf, .pdf, .txt
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
__ I have read and understand the requirements that have been provided in the handbook for City of
Costa Mesa Utility Art Box Program.
__ I certify that the information contained in this application and attachments are true and correct.
WAIVER & RELEASE
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I represent that I am the author of and owner of all rights in and to the Artwork and that I have the
sole and exclusive right to make within the grant of rights, including but not limited to moral rights,
that neither I nor anyone else has any contractual or other arrangements which will interfere with
rights herein granted and warrant that the rights herein granted will not infringe on the rights of any
third party and that the consent or permission of no other party is required by City in connection
with the use of the Artwork. I agree to indemnify and hold City harmless from and against any and
all liability, damages, claims and demands of whatever kind and nature, either in law or in equity,
which arises or may hereafter arise from the City's use or display of the Artwork or in connection
with the breach or alleged breach of my representation and/or warranty made hereunder.
______________________________ ____________________________________ _____________
Print Name Signature Date
CITY OF COSTA MESA
UTILITY ART BOX PROGRAM SPONSORSHIP APPLICATION
Also available online
ORGANIZATION INFORMATION
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Name of the Organization:___________________________________________________
Representative’s First Name ______________________________
Representative’s Last Name ______________________________
Street Address _________________________________________________________________
City, ST Zip Code ___________________________________________________________________
Email _____________________________________________________________________________
Phone ____________________________________Facebook URL: _______________________
Web Site URL: ______________________________Instagram URL: __________________
Please provide a short description of your organization (required).
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
ARTIST & ARTWORK INFORMATION
Organizations and businesses are encouraged to solicit a design or artwork from a local artist. Contact Arts
Specialist for recommendations.
If a local artist has been commissioned to create artwork for the Utility Art Box Sponsorship
Program, they will need to fill out the UABP Artist Application and submit the photos and sign
the waiver.
Artist:___________________________________________
Artwork Title:
This may be used, in whole or in part, for promotion if your application is approved and will be placed on the
Utility Box Google map.
___________________________________________________________________________
LOGO INFORMATION
Please upload or email your organization’s logo to be placed on the utility box.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Each organization is permitted 1 submission per year. Checks for sponsorship fees can be made out
to the City of Costa Mesa and are due after receiving notice of an approved application and before
the vinyl wrap is applied.
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ARTS DIRECTORY (only applicable to arts organizations)
__ I give permission to include my organization and social media information in the City of Costa
Mesa’s Arts Directory on the City’s website.
If you’d like to be a part of the Arts Directory, please upload or email an image you would like to
feature below:
Featured Image:_________________________
Maximum size allowed is 5 MB. Allowed types: gif, .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .rtf, .pdf, .txt
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
__ I have read and understand the requirements that have been provided in the handbook for City of
Costa Mesa Utility Art Box Program.
__ I certify that the information contained in this application and attachments are true and correct.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Laurette Garner
City of Costa Mesa
Arts Specialist
laurette.garner@costamesaca.gov
(714) 754-5322
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Thank you for completing this application form and for your interest in the Utility Art Box Program.
If your artwork is selected you will be contacted via email. Please insure your email address is
correctly displayed above.
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Implementation of Community-Initiated
Public Art Proposals
A community entity identifies and develops a
Public Art Project and Proposal as required.
The Proposal is submitted to the applicable
District’s Supervisorial Office. The Supervisor’s
office will review for referral to the Administrator’s
Office.
The Administrator’s Office in tandem with the
Public Art Advisory Committee will review and
recommend the Proposal for approval by the
Board of Supervisors.
The Board of Supervisors has final Approval of the
Community Initiated Public Art Proposal.
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FORM CAC-2 Page 1 of 4
APPLICATION FOR DONATIONS OF ARTWORK
TO THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO
Thank you for your interest in donating artwork to the City of San Diego. Please complete and submit
this application to the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, ATTN: Civic Art Collection,
1200 Third Avenue, Suite 924, San Diego, CA 92101. Contact City staff at (619) 236-6800 for
assistance. Additional sheets may be attached as needed. The City reserves the right to request
additional information in order to process a donation proposal.
DONOR
Name(s)
Address
City State Zip Code Country
Phone Fax Email
Credit Line - Provide the donor’s name as it should appear in labels, publications and publicity.
If this application is for a partial interest donation, explain the proposed terms. (Unless otherwise indicated by the donor, the
City will assume that donation proposals are absolute.)
If this application is for a restricted donation, explain the proposed terms. (Unless otherwise indicated by the donor, the City
will assume that donation proposals are unrestricted.)
Conflict of Interest - Disclose whether the donor has any active contracts with the City or is involved in any
stage of negotiations for a City contract.
ARTIST
Name Alias (If applicable)
Nationality Birth Date Death Date (If applicable)
Address
City State Zip Code Country
Phone Fax Email
Website
Artist Representation/Gallery Name (If applicable)
Artist Representation/Gallery Address
City State Zip Code Country
Phone Fax Email
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FORM CAC-2 Page 2 of 4
Website
For donations of commissioned artwork, please explain the method for the selection of the artist.
ARTWORK
Title
Artwork type (e.g. painting, sculpture, etc.) Medium
Description
Period/Date Dimensions and Weight
Finishes applied to surface
Construction technique(s)
If this artwork is part of an edition, what is the edition number and the total number of the edition?
If this artwork is part of a series, what is the total number in the series?
If this artwork is part of a pair or a group, what is the total number in the pair or group?
Describe frame, if any.
Describe base or pedestal, if any.
Describe any accompanying accessories.
Current location of artwork
(Optional) Proposed City-owned site for placement
For memorials, describe the person or event to be commemorated.
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FORM CAC-2 Page 3 of 4
ARTWORK HISTORY
Provenance/Past Owners – List all past owners and period of ownership for each.
Exhibition History – List the exhibition history including exhibition titles, venues and dates for each.
Publications and References – List all publications about and references to the artwork.
COPYRIGHT OWNERSHIP
Name of current copyright owner Title
Address
City State Zip Code Country
Phone Fax Email
If the donor is the current copyright owner, does the donor intend to transfer the copyright to the City of San
Diego should the donation be accepted by the City?
ARTWORK VALUATION
Fair Market Value $
How was this fair market value determined and by whom?
CONDITION
Describe the current condition of the artwork noting any existing breaks, tears, scratches, abrasions, paint
losses, or other insecurities or defects in the artwork.
If the artwork has been conserved, describe the conservation treatment.
(Optional) Provide recommendations for routine maintenance of artwork. Indicate whether these
recommendations were provided by a conservator.
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FORM CAC-2 Page 4 of 4
(Optional) Provide recommendations for security, installation, transportation and/or storage.
For donations of commissioned artwork, please outline the installation plan.
OTHER REQUIRED MATERIALS
Please submit the following materials along with this completed form.
• Artist’s résumé and bio
• Digital, color images of existing artwork
• Color renderings of commissioned artwork
• For commissioned artwork, submit digital images of artist’s past work.
• (Optional) Images of proposed site for artwork
• Itemized list of any costs to be borne by the City for transportation, installation, exhibition, operation,
maintenance, conservation, and/or security.
• For commissioned artwork, submit an itemized budget for design, fabrication and installation.
• For commissioned artwork, submit a timeline for design, fabrication and installation.
• Exhibition catalogs, publications and/or references, if available
• Formal, written appraisal for any artwork with a fair market value of $10,000 or more
• Condition report, if available
• Conservator’s report, if applicable
• Proof of authenticity, if available
• Any other information relevant to the artwork
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