01.29.25 BAC PacketBoulder Arts Commission Meeting Agenda
January 29, 2025 / 6:00 P.M.
Hybrid Meeting:
Office of Arts and Culture at 1500 Pearl Street, #300 / Online Video Meeting
1.CALL TO ORDER
Approval of agenda
2.MINUTES
Approval of the November 2024 meeting and retreat minutes
3.PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
4.COMMISSION BUSINESS (5 min)
5.MATTERS FROM COMMISSIONERS (15 min)
A.Liaison Updates
B.Commission Work Items
6.PUBLIC ART PROGRAM (60 min) – Brendan and Rachel
A.Action: Adoption of Transportation Artworks into the Collection
B.Action: Western City Campus Projects Approval
C.Commissioners needed for upcoming Public Art Selection Panels
7.GRANTS PROGRAM (15 min) – Sarah
A.Action: Grant Report
B.Commissioners needed for Grant Panel meetings
8.MATTERS FROM STAFF (15 min) – Lauren
A.Boulder Arts Blueprint Update
B.Questions about the Manager’s Memo
9.ADJOURNMENT
Next meeting:
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
1
CITY OF BOULDER
BOULDER, COLORADO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEETING MINUTES
Name of Board/ Commission: Boulder Arts Commission
Date of Meeting: November 20, 2024
Contact information preparing summary: Lisa Wuycheck, Executive Assistant
Commission members present: Sheryl Cardozo, Jeffrey Kash (Vice-Chair), Caroline Kert (Chair), Georgia Schmid,
Maria Cole
Commission members absent: Jill Katzenberger, Yaelaed Whyel
Staff present:
Cris Jones, Community Vitality (CV) Director
Matt Chasansky, CV Senior Manager of Cultural Vibrancy and District Vitality
Lauren Click, CV Arts & Culture Manager
Sarah Harrison, CV Grants Program Manager
Lisa Wuycheck, CV Executive Assistant
Members of the public present:
Type of Meeting: Hybrid (Location: 1500 Pearl Street, Suite #300, Boulder, CO 80302 )
Agenda Item 1: CALL TO ORDER [00:00:25 Audio min.]
Kert called the meeting to order at 6:07 p.m.
Cardozo made the first motion to approve the agenda, which was seconded by Cole. There was no discussion, and the
motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 2: MINUTES [00:01:22 Audio min.]
Item 2A: Approval of the October 2024 Meeting Minutes
Kash made the first motion to approve the October meeting minutes, which was seconded by Cardozo. There was no
discussion, and the motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 3: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION [00:01:53 Audio min.]
There were no public participants.
Agenda Item 4: COMMISSION BUSINESS [00:02:02 Audio min.]
There was no Commission business.
2
Agenda Item 5: MATTERS FROM COMMISSIONERS [00:02:37 Audio min.]
Item 5A: Liaison Updates
Cardozo met with BIFF to discuss funding challenges with staff.
Cole announced that BMOCA is in the final stages of selecting an architecture firm, with the decision expected in
January. She reported that MahlerFest has a great program planned for 2025. Cole also met with Motus Theater, which
requested more clarity regarding the Arts & Culture Department’s bridge year. Grant Program Manager Sarah Harrison
confirmed she had sent out an informational email and would follow up with them.
Kash will meet with BIFF staff to discuss 2025 support. He shared that the Shakespeare Festival held their
announcement party for 2025 and explained that the festival managed to stay in the black thanks to GOS grant funding
and support from CU. Kash also met with Nancy Smith from Frequent Flyers for a coaching session, and with
leadership at Local Theater Company, which launched their first major fundraiser.
Kert explained that she met with Eco Arts, which expressed concerns about immigration, as many of their families are
of mixed status. She also announced that she met with Third Law Dance Theater, which recently held a successful
performance to support Parkinson’s Disease research. Additionally, Kert stated that KGNU is on track to occupy their
new space by the end of 2025 and invited the commissioners to join a hard hat tour of the location.
Schmid addressed concerns regarding negative experiences and systemic racial issues she encountered during her
tenure on the Arts Commission. She shared personal accounts and raised broader questions about equity, inclusion, and
organizational standards for funding arts organizations.
Commissioners acknowledged Commissioner Schmid’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of equity and inclusion.
They expressed regret for any negative experiences she experienced and committed to improving the Commission
processes.
Suggestions were made to incorporate additional training on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Specific
recommendations included inviting experts such as Bill de la Cruz to provide guidance.
CV Senior Manager of Cultural Vibrancy and District Vitality Matt Chasansky clarified procedural questions about
leadership nominations, highlighting historical practices of the Commission while acknowledging areas for potential
improvement.
Item 5B: Commission Work Items
Arts & Culture Manager Lauren Click led the discussion, focusing on 2025 and expressing that the goal is to find more
impactful, long-term ways to integrate key issues into events and public art programs. She began by reviewing the
commission's "wish list" of items discussed during the retreat, noting that the discussion had been extensive and full o f
big ideas.
Click then summarized some key points from the retreat. She noted that some topics were already on the staff's work
plan. These include supporting organizations with the grants process and the new grant writing fund, which offers $500
to assist applicants with writing competitive grants. Clicked noted the other items on the staff's work plan including the
venue study, which is currently in progress, and a future cultural organization summit with the Colorado Business
Committee for the Arts (CBCA). Additionally, she said marketing grants for STEAM programs are being pursued,
with a focus on reaching out to applicants in related fields beyond traditional arts programming.
Click also discussed the importance of bringing in a representative to talk about reviewing budgets, both for grant
applications and final reports. She announced this session will take place in January or February and will involve
commissioners and the new grant panel.
3
The Commissioners requested staff send then funding opportunities to commissioners to share with the community.
Click then addressed topics that are out of the scope of the commission, including the creation of a cultural calendar.
She explained that the Boulder County Arts Alliance currently manages a centralized calendar, and the city is not
equipped to handle such a function. Additionally, Click noted that policy advocacy and support fall outside the staff's
role, though she encouraged commissioners to join CBCA's arts advocacy network for updates on statewide
opportunities. Civic area planning and the comp planning process were also discussed, with Click encouraging
commissioners to provide input through surveys and meetings.
The Boulder Arts Blueprint (Blueprint) process was mentioned as another area where the commission's work can
intersect. Click explained the consultants are conducting comparative research on how other cities support Indigenous
artists and best practices in grant programs, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, and connecting youth with
arts opportunities.
Lastly, Click reviewed potential work items for the commission, including those that are outside of the staff's work
plan but can be supported through time, meetings, and organizing committees. She suggested that committees might be
formed to focus on these areas, with a focus on manageable work and training spread throughout the year.
•Continued work on how to support the City’s work with Tribal Nations
•Continued work on rebuilding trust in the community
•Connecting other funders with grantees and the arts community
•Continued work with the City’s Legislative Liaison
•Coaching sessions with arts organizations on fundraising, venues, and marketing strategies
•Connecting youth with arts opportunities, such as CU Boulder, YOAB, and youth opportunities in projects
Click recommended that the commission take time to consider which areas they want to prioritize and suggested that
the January meeting be used to discuss the commission's goals for 2025 in more detail. She emphasized that it would
be a busy and transitional year, so careful planning and prioritization would be important. The group agreed with this
approach.
Item 5C: Other Topics from the Community
There were no topics from the community.
Item 5D: December Meeting
Click led the discussion on whether to hold a December Arts Commission meeting. She noted that in previous years,
the commission typically does not hold a meeting in December unless there are urgent reports that require immediate
review. She explained this typically occurs when organizations need to receive the last 20% of their grant funding.
However, Click emphasized that no organization has expressed a hardship or urgency to hold a meeting in December
when given the option to wait until January.
Click clarified that if any reports are submitted in the week leading up to the meeting, staff would reach out to confirm
whether the organizations are comfortable waiting until January. If any reports require immediate attention, she stated
that the commission can hold a brief online meeting to review them. This meeting would be kept short, likely around
15 minutes, and would include public participation, as required. Click confirmed the meeting could be scheduled for
Wednesday, December 18.
4
The group agreed that this approach worked for everyone, and no objections were raised. The decision was made to
potentially hold a brief online meeting on December 18 if necessary .
5
APPROVED BY: ATTESTED:
____________________________________________________________________________
Board Chair Board Secretary
___________________________________________________________________________
Date Date
Agenda Item 6: GRANTS PROGRAM [01:01:34 Audio min.]
Item 6A: Action: Grant Reports
Grants Program Manager Harrison reviewed the following grant reports for approval.
•Street Wise Arts, Street Wise Mural Festival, $10,000
•Junkyard Social Club, Boulder County’s STEAMFest, $3,000
She reviewed the commissioners’ following options for the voting process to approve the reports.
•Approve all reports,
•Approve individual reports,
•Approve individual reports while submitting specific questions,
•Postpone approval of individual reports pending the answers to specific questions, and/or
•Not approve individual reports and cancel the final payments.
Cardozo said, I move that we approve the grant reports from Street Wise Arts and Junkyard Social.’ Seconded by
Kash. There was no discussion. All commissioners were in agreement, and the vote passed unanimously .
Agenda Item 7: MATTERS FROM STAFF [01:08:04 Audio min.]
Item 7A: Questions about the Manager’s Memo
There were no questions or comments from the commissioners.
Agenda Item 8: ADJOURNMENT [01:08:10 Audio min.]
There being no further business to come before the commission at this time, Kert adjourned the meeting at 7:15 p.m.
Date, time, and location of the next meeting:
If deemed necessary by the commissioners and staff, the next Boulder Arts Commission meeting will be held virtually
at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 18.
6
r TO: Members of the Boulder Arts Commission
FROM: Lauren Click, City of Boulder Office of Arts + Culture,
Community Vitality Department
DATE: January 24, 2025
SUBJECT: Manager’s Update for the Boulder Arts Commission
Meeting on January 29, 2025
>To maximize access, the January 29, 2025, meeting of the Arts Commission will be held as a hybrid in-person /
video meeting. The Arts Commission, members of the community, and staff may attend either in person or by
video.
−The in-person meeting will be held at the Office of Arts and Culture at 1500 Pearl Street, #300. Due to room
capacity, there may be a limited number of seats available for members of the community to attend in
person.
−To attend, please make a request by email to rsvp@bouldercolorado.gov by Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at
12:00 p.m. Please indicate in your email if you are requesting to attend in person or by video.
>Notes on the January Meeting Agenda
−5B, Commission Work Items. At the October Commission Retreat, there were several ideas brought forth
that the Commission would like to address in the upcoming year. At this meeting, we will follow up on our
November 2024 discussion about what two items to focus on and discussion to form committees to begin
the work. A list of ideas here:
-Continued work on how to support the City’s work with Tribal Nations
-Continued work on rebuilding trust in the community
-Connecting other funders with grantees and the arts community
-Continued work with the City’s Legislative Liaison
-Coaching sessions with arts organizations on fundraising, venues, and marketing strategies
-Connecting youth with arts opportunities, such as CU Boulder, YOAB, and youth opportunities in
projects
−6A, Adoption of Transportation Artworks into the Public Art Collection. The City of Boulder Office of Arts
and Culture in the Community Vitality Department has agreed to adopt four artworks from the host
department, the Department of Transportation and Mobility. Through the culmination of an audit process
that reviewed all artistic assets across the City of Boulder, it has been determined that four art installations
implemented by the Transportation and Mobility Department are suitable for adoption to be included in the
permanent City of Boulder Public Art Collection. The criteria for adoption included:
1.Completion Date
2.Provenance
3.Intention
4.Process
5.Documentation
6.Unique Circumstances
7
Attachment One includes a memo from the Transportation and Mobility Department approving the
adoption, and details on the four artworks listed below. Ownership and host of these works will transfer to
the Office of Arts and Culture in the Community Vitality department after approval by the Boulder Arts
Commission and following approval by Community Vitality Department Director. This department practice
is supported by the policy. Attachment Two has details of the process, including images of the four works:
1.Current by Karen Yank, 2015
2.40th Parallel Prism Tower by Christian Muller, 2017
3.Hex Totems by Christian Muller, 2017
4.Lighthouse by Ken Bernstein, 2017
RECOMMENDED MOTION
“I move that we adopt the four artworks from the Department of Transportation and Mobility into the
Public Art Collection managed and hosted by the Office of Arts and Culture in the Community Vitality
Department.”
−6B, Western City Campus (WCC) Projects Approval. Ten semi-finalists presented proposals for the WCC in
December to the art selection panel. During the meeting, Commissioners will be asked to approve that the
process was properly conduced following the Public Art Policy and recommend that the proposals move
the selections to the City Manager for final approval. Attachment Three outlines the selection and approval
process detailing the three project sites with a combined budget of $850,000. It presents finalist
proposals, feedback, and selection panel recommendations for each site, with unanimous approvals for
artists Matthew Mazzotta (Plaza), Soo Sunny Park (Pavilion Lobby and Garage Atrium), and Bimmer Torres
(Garage Stairwell). Following the Commission’s vote, the projects are sent to the City Manager for final
approval.
1.Cohabitat by Matthew Mazzotta for the WCC Plaza, $300,000
2.Altered Topography: Flatiron Abstraction and Split/Together: Boulder Creek by Soo Sunny Park for
the WCC Pavilion Lobby and Atrium, $450,000
3.Infinite Flow by Bimmer Torres for the WCC Parking Garage Stairwell, $100,000
RECOMMENDED MOTION
“I move that we approve this process was properly conducted and recommend that the proposals by
Matthew Mazzotta, Soo Sunny Park, and Bimmer Torres for the future Western City Campus advance to
the City Manager for final approval.”
−6C, Commissioners needed for Public Art Selection Panels. Public Art Program staff is requesting
volunteers for several upcoming projects that require commissioner representation. Serving on a panel
consists of roughly three meetings, at which you will represent the community in selecting an artist for the
project commissions. As a group, the selection panel will draft the artwork criteria for a call for entry,
review all submissions, semifinalist proposals, and interview the semifinalists.
1.Representation on two upcoming Fire Station projects (2 and 4)
2.Representation on Transportation projects – TBD
8
−7A, Grant Report. The grant report requiring action has been distributed to Arts Commission members by
email. This is the Arts Education Grant report being discussed:
-Boulder Opera, Touring Xochitl and the Flowers, $3,000
RECOMMENDED MOTION
“I move that we approve the grant report from Boulder Opera.”
At the meeting Commission members will vote on the approval of the reports. Commissioners have the
options to:
a.Approve the report,
b.Approve the report while submitting specific questions,
c.Postpone approval of the report pending the answers to specific questions, and/or
d.Not approve the report and cancel the final payment.
7B, Commissioners needed for Grant Panel meetings. 2025 Boulder Arts Commission Grant Program
competitive grants will be reviewed by a Grants Panel. The Panel will review applications and score
according to the Arts Commission’s Scoring System and Rubric. The Grant Panel’s responsibility is to
make a final recommendation to the Boulder Arts Commission on which grants to award. Per the Grant
Panel Information document reviewed and approved by this Commission at the October 2024 meeting and
retreat, “Each grant panel will include a minimum of five voting members. An Arts Commissioner will
attend each review discussion meeting to observe the process as ex-officio, non-voting participant.” Staff
are in need of one Commissioner to volunteer to act as this non-voting, ex-officio during the following
panel meetings (each just before the Commission meeting for that month):
-General Operating Support new applications, March 26, 3:00 – 5:00 pm (tentative)
-Community Project Grants for Organizations, April 23, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
-Community Project Grants for Individuals, May 28, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
-Arts Education Project Grants, June 25, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
-Leadership Pipeline Fund Scholarship, July 23, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
>Commission Correspondence
The transparency practices of the Boulder Arts Commission require that emails to three or more members of
the Commission be published in the public record. One item of correspondence was sent between the
publication of the November 20, 2024, and January 29, 2025, meeting packets. It can be found in Attachment
Four.
>Staff Updates
>Administration and Planning
9
Boulder Arts Blueprint consultants Public Sphere Projects and P.U.M.A. visited in December, after initial,
virtual meetings with some stakeholders. During their visit, they met with more stakeholder groups, held a
mixer to meet the arts community, and met with the Advisory Committee. They are also in the midst of
reviewing our research materials and benchmarking with other cities. At the Advisory Committee, they
discussed their process, the first impressions of the Office and Boulder, and they explored potential large-
scale investments, expanded definitions of arts and culture, and stronger integration between the arts and
commercial sectors.
Engagement for the Boulder Arts Blueprint is ongoing, expanding beyond the arts community while aligning
with the comprehensive plan's engagement processes. While initial outreach focused on arts and culture
stakeholders and groups, future engagement includes broader community input through events, surveys,
and outreach at recreation centers and schools. An initial report is expected by the end of January, with a
progress update to the city council in March. They will also return in March for additional in person
research.
Work continues with the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan team to collaborate on their engagement
processes and for the Boulder Arts Blueprint.
In Attachment Five please find information on the citywide move to plant-based meals at events
encouraged by the City Manager and Environmental Advisory Board. The document is a guide for
implementing a "Plant-Based by Default" (PBD) food ordering policy for City of Boulder boards,
commissions, and council meetings to reduce meat consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and
save resources. The Arts Commission will follow this guidance as is possible with the dietary restrictions of
our Commissioners.
>Grants and Programs
Work continues to support applicants and promote the 2025 Boulder Arts Commission Grant Program.
The grants panel was selected, and training began. The Panel consists of Lisa Eldred, Jacquelyn Leggett,
Sheila Sears, Sarah Braverman, and Mary Chapin Durling. They were selected based on the following
criteria:
1.Cultural Grants—skills and history: Demonstration of past competence in grant review skills,
particularly as it applies to arts and culture grants
2.Inclusive Perspective: Dedication to reviewing grants with a through a lens of equity, access, and
inclusion and intention to prioritize projects which actively promote equitable access and
representation across different demographics within the applicant pool
3.Understanding of Frameworks and Values: Strong written response to the application questions
about the 2015 Community Cultural Plan and stated agreement to the conflict-of-interest policy
While the selected panel brings diverse knowledge, skills, and experiences, there was a limited number of
applications from individuals who identify as part of underserved populations. To address this, staff
extended the deadline several times, collaborated with Ana Silvia Avendaño Curiel, the city’s Racial Equity
Policy Advisor, and the Community Connectors to enhance outreach efforts. The opportunity was widely
promoted through newsletters, social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), and direct sharing with the
Commission, current grantees, and our office lists. Despite these efforts, the time commitment and
10
volume of grant reviews may have deterred potential applicants. Staff looks forward to evaluating the 2026
program during our annual review, incorporating insights from the Commission and the Boulder Arts
Blueprint consultants to strengthen outreach and improve accessibility.
The following 2024 Rental Assistance and Fee Wavier grant reports were approved in advance of the
meeting:
−T2 Dance Company, T2 Tales, Dairy Arts Center, $959
−3rd Law Dance/Theater, 3rd Law Dance/Theater Dance presents INTERZONE with the Dance for
Parkinson’s Program, Swoon Art House & online, $1,000
−Greater Boulder Youth Orchestras, Spring Concert 2024 and Fall Concert 2024, Macky Fee Waivers
and $1,000
−Street Wise Arts, Street Wise Mural Festival, Roots Music Project Fee Waiver
−Creativity Alive, Online Creativity Alive program streaming, $1,000
−Creativity Alive, ArtDance Series with Creativity Alive, $500 (from 2020 Rental Assistance Fund)
−The New Local, "At The Annex" Interview Series Pilot and Second Episode, The New Local for
YouTube, $1,000
−NoBo Art District, NoBo Art District Annual Fundraiser, Roots Music Project Fee Waiver
−Rocky Mountain Revels, Christmas/Midwinter Revels, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
The following 2024 Artist Hiring Incentive Grant reports were approved by staff in advance of the meeting:
−NoBo The Boulder Podcast
−Boulder Phil 2024 to 2025 Season Artists
−T2 Dance Company, Lost & Found (revamped), $3,000
−Greater Boulder Youth Orchestras, 2024 Autumn Concert, $3,000
−Parlando School of Musical Arts, Recording Studio Coordinator, $3,000
−Sans Souci, Sans Souci Festival of Danced Cinema, $3,000
−Mi Chantli, Art and Movement Sanctuary, $3,000
The following 2025 Rental Assistance and Fee Waiver applications were approved in advance of the
meeting:
−Parlando Summer Staged Show, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−LOCAL Theater Company, CHASING BREADCRUMBS, a world premiere by Michelle Tyrene
Johnson, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Cantabile Singers, Mozart's Requiem for Choir, Soloists, and Four-hand Piano, First Congregational
Church, $700
−Boulder Opera, PUCCINI’S DOUBLE BILL: IL TABARRO and GIANNI SCHICCHI, Dairy Arts Center,
$1,000
−Sans Souci Festival of Dance, SSF@Museum of Boulder: 22nd Annual Festival Premiere, Museum
of Boulder, $1,000
−Society for Creative Aging/dba Viva Theater, Spring Production 2025, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Greater Boulder Youth Orchestra, Fall Concert 2025, Macky Auditorium, $1,000
−East Window, Todd Herman, Journal of Written and Visual Arts, $1,000
−Mariposa Collective, Momentum, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra, 'Beethoven’s Magnum Opus,” 2024-2025 Masterworks Series
Concert #5, Macky Auditorium, $1,000
11
−The Catamounts, Ghost Quartet by Dave Malloy, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Boulder Choral, Boulder Chorale 2025 Holiday Concert, First United Methodist Church of Boulder,
$1,000
−Frequent Flyers, Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance May 2024 Performance, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Empathy Theatre Project, We’re Still Here: A New Musical, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Boulder Ballet, REVIVED, Dairy Arts Center, $1,000
−Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra, “Beethoven’s Magnum Opus,” 2024-2025 Masterworks Series
Concert #5, Macky Fee Waiver
−Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra, “Rachmaninoff & Stravinsky,” 2024-25 Masterworks Series
Concert #4, Macky Fee Waiver
−Greater Boulder Youth Orchestra, Spring Concert 2025, Macky Fee Waiver
−Greater Boulder Youth Orchestra, Fall Concert 2025, Macky Fee Waiver
−Future Arts Foundation, Bluebird Music Festival, Macky Fee Waiver
The following 2025 Artist Hiring Grant (Round 1) applications were selected by lottery in advance of the
meeting:
−Roots Music Project Foundation
−Society for Creative Aging/ VIVA Theater
−LOCAL Theater Company
−T2 Dance
−Dairy Arts Center
−Boulder Opera
The following 2025 Professional Development Fund (Round 1) scholarships were approved in advance of
the meeting:
−Merlyn Holmes, Level 2 Certification with Sound Healing Academy either in Birmingham, UK or
Monticello, IA $1,000
−Patti Bonnet, DomeFest West 2025, Boulder, CO $500
−Bridget Ryan, Countertechnique’s ‘One Body, One Career (OBOC)’ Intensive either in Amsterdam,
Netherlands or Los Angeles, CA
−Laura Malpass, The Power of Movement: Dance Education Traditions and Innovations (NDEO
Annual Conference), Detroit, MI $1,000
The following Grant Writing Fund applications were approved in advance of the meeting:
−Matty Bovard
−Julia Misawa
−Sunanda Dangol
The following were awarded 2025 Boulder Arts Week sponsorships:
−Carlos Hernandez, Mi Chantli: Hip-Hopetry
−Beth Merckel, BoMA First Friday
−Egemen Kesikli, Evening of Stories and Music from Faraway Lands
−Jon Karst, Chautauqua Art in the Park
−Richelle Cripe, "Dream-Pictures"
−Rose Dreisbach, Make Your Own Terrarium Workshop
12
−Amanda Sandlin, First Friday ArtWalk and NoBo Art Tour
−Anika McEwan, Try-It-Out Night: Wheel Throwing!
−Kate Moore, A Playshop with The Great Perhaps Performance Collective
−Anna Bouw-Bolik, Empowering and opening a new world of colors for visually impaired Individuals
through Art
−Whitman Lindstrom, First Friday ArtWalk and NOBO Art Tour
−Todd Herman, Exhibitions featuring the art of Amitis Motevalli and Dana Claxton
−Merlyn Holmes, Healing Sound Journey with Creativity Alive
−Megan McCarthy, Art in the Wild, an Interactive Art Event at Wilderness Art Studios
−Tiffany Crowder, BAW 2025 Marketing + Promotion
−Andrew Barker, Large-Format Claybord Demonstration
−Beyond Academia LLC, Taste of: Poets on Pearl*
−Christopher Ruiz, Chris Ruiz @ Taste of Pearl *
−Marie-Juliette Bird, THE NEW LOCAL – Art Activation*
−Linda Park, Enhanced Art Experience - Augmented Reality - The Art Wonders of Pearl Street*
−Temuulen Johnson "Melodies of the Steppe (Mongolian songs on the morin khuur)"*
−Tanja London "Squirrel for ALL - Democracy and Human Rights"*
*Six additional sponsorships were funded by our colleagues at Community Vitality for ‘Taste of Pearl'
projects to be implemented in downtown Boulder on April 6, 2025.
The following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration 2025 Sponsorships (through the Office of Arts +
Culture) were awarded through the Human Relations Commission:
−Second Baptist Church of Boulder, “Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 30
Years-Dream Makers, Mile Markers, & Milestones What's Your Dream?" $2,000 from Boulder Arts
Commission, $2,000 from the Human Relations Fund (awarded 11/15/2024)
−Motus Theater, “Still We Rise: 3rd annual Dr. King Jr. Performance with MOTUS and The
ReMINDers”, $1,000 from Boulder Arts Commission, $1,000 from Human Relations Fund (awarded
12/17/2024)
−La Vecindad "Freed by the Hum of the Drum" $1,000 from Boulder Arts Commission, $2,600 from
the Human Relations Fund (awarded 12/17/2024)
In Attachment Six, please find a current grants program budget.
>Public Art Program
Staff continues to work on Public Art Implementation Plan updates.
Staff is planning to manage nine new, upcoming public art projects tied to larger capital improvement
projects in 2025. These will include two fire stations, the East Boulder Community Center, and the
University Hill project, among others.
A consultant is nearly under contract to handle five of the upcoming public art projects, including two new
fire stations and transportation projects.
13
Work is almost complete on adding a self-guided version (StoryMap) of the Downtown Boulder Public Art
Tour to the website.
Work continues on expanding the public art presence in social media and the newsletter.
Staff continue to work with the budget office on public art funding procedures in the Capital Improvement
Program and the Community Culture Resilience and Safety Tax (CCRS) allocations.
Staff continue to support colleagues in Planning and Development Services on improvements to the public
art permitting process.
Public Art Commissioning Updates:
-Western City Campus (Alpine Balsam): three artists were selected for inclusion of public art
projects. Approvals will be discussed at this meeting.
-Fire Station 3 (Michael Clapper): Grand opening of Fire Station 3 and dedication of the public
artwork occurred on Friday, January 24.
-Urban Design - 19th and Upland (Anthony Garcia): Final design. Waiting on parent project to
commence construction. The anticipated parent project construction schedule is Winter 2025 to
Spring 2026. Art will be installed in Spring 2026.
-Art in Parking Garages: 11th and Spruce (David Franklin): Design development. Engineering
assessment of the garage is complete, and staff is now working on amending their contract for time
and funds.
-Uni Hill Public Art: Design development. Staff has identified several locations for an artwork and
have assembled a selection and technical review panel. Art will be installed in 2026.
Maintenance and Conservation:
-Accessible Signage: A consultant is managing the audit of the public art collection and will enter
information on the collection into the City’s mapping database when finalized. Staff is now
engaging with a part-time project consultant to manage the implementation of the Accessible
Signage Plan.
In Attachment Seven, please find the public art program 5-year budget.
>Creative Neighborhoods
Planning for the 2025 Creative Neighborhoods Mural Program is underway. In mid-January, staff met with
stakeholders and are actively collaborating with the City of Boulder’s Office of Public Engagement and
language access specialists to develop an inclusive plan. The 2025 program aims to bring public art to all
Boulder subcommunities, with a particular focus on neighborhoods that had not received a mural in the
previous iteration, underserved communities, and affordable neighborhoods, ensuring broader access and
representation.
Ten mural projects have been funded under the 2024 Creative Neighborhoods Mural Program in residential
areas of eight different subcommunities around the city. The third mural was completed in January and is
located on a fence facing Valmont at Mapleton Mobile home park.
14
>Venues
Staff is working with multiple departments to negotiate and complete a new lease with The Dairy Arts
Center.
Work continues to provide support on the proposal from the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
(BMoCA) to relocate their facility to a new location in the NoBo Art District.
Staff has enlisted the support of an intern to assist with data collection from existing venues in Boulder,
gathering details on available space, rental rates, and, where possible, financial insights into operating
costs.
In late 2024, staff launched a Venue User Questionnaire to understand what spaces artists currently use—
or would use if available—for creating, teaching, rehearsing, exhibiting, and performing art in Boulder.
Targeted at artists and arts organizations, the questionnaire seeks to gather diverse input to help shape the
Boulder Arts Blueprint.
>Professional Artists
Work continues on the Artist Census. Data collected during 2024 Questionnaire and focus groups is
currently being compiled and analyzed. A report is scheduled to be available towards the end of Q1 2025.
Staff hosted the first Professional Artist Forum (to be renamed Artist Meetup) on January 14, 2025, on
collaboration during Boulder Arts Week. Many creatives and many business owners and managers
attended, and talked about collaborating during Boulder Arts Week.
>Civic Dialog, Boulder Arts Week
Boulder Arts Week (BAW) will happen April 4 to 12, 2025. Planning is underway, including advertising and
social media, printed marketing collateral, and a growing BAW calendar. The student-created banners for
downtown Boulder have been installed. As noted, have been working with local creatives and businesses
to facilitate collaborations during BAW.
New in 2025, BAW will include an awards program to recognize members of the Boulder community who
have contributed to the arts ecosystem. Awards will be announced online and through a press release this
inaugural year.
15
MEMORANDUM
To: Brendan Picker-Mahoney, Boulder Public Art Program Manager
Lauren Click, Office of Arts and Culture Manager
From: Valerie Watson, Boulder Interim Director of Transportation and Mobility
Cc: Gerrit Slatter, Civil Engineering Senior Manager, Transportation and Mobility
Cris Jones, Director of Community Vitality
Date: November 21, 2024
Regarding: The Adoption of Artworks by the City of Boulder Office of Arts and Culture from the City of
Boulder Transportation and Mobility Department
Through the culmination of an audit process that reviewed all artistic assets across the City of Boulder, it has
been determined that four Transportation & Mobility implemented art installations are suitable for adoption
by the Boulder Office of Arts and Culture to be included in the permanent City of Boulder Public Art Collection.
The criteria for adoption included:
1.Completion Date
2. Provenance
3.Intention
4.Process
5.Documentation
6.Unique Circumstances
The four artworks for adoption are attached to this memorandum. The Transportation and Mobility
department has reviewed the artworks and agrees with the outcome of the audit. Ownership and
maintenance of these works will transfer to the Office of Arts and Culture after approval by the Boulder Arts
Commission. The next step in the process is for the Boulder Arts Commission to formally approve the adoption
of these works for inclusion into the Boulder Public Art Collection.
_______________________________________________ __________________________________
Valerie Watson Date
Interim Director
Transportation and Mobility
11/22/2024
Attachment One
Adoption into Public Art Collection
16
Works to be Adopted by the Boulder Office of Arts and Culture from the Boulder Department of
Transportation, for inclusion into the Permanent City of Boulder Public Art Collection
Current, steel sculpture by Karen Yank at
Junction Place Bridge Underpass at Goose
Creek.
Lighthouse, (AKA Diagonal Highway Project), sculpture by
Ken Bernstein on Diagonal Highway just east of 28th Street
on the south side of the street.
17
Hex Totems, (AKA Diagonal Highway Project), sculpture by
Christian Muller on Diagonal Highway just west of Foothills
Parkway, in the median.
40th Parallel Prism Marker, (AKA part of Baseline Road
Project) by Christian Muller, on Baseline Road pedestrian
underpass
18
Boulder Arts Commission
Meeting
November 20, 2024
Attachment Two
Audit Update
19
Public Participation Guidelines
-The city has engaged with community members to co-create a vision
for productive, meaningful, and inclusive civic conversations.
-This vision supports the physical and emotional safety for community
members, staff, and council as well as democracy for people of all
ages, identities, lived experiences, and political perspectives.
-For more information about this vision and the community
engagement processes, please visit:
bouldercolorado.gov/services/productive-atmospheres
20
Public Participation Guidelines
The following are examples of rules of decorum found in the Boulder Revised Code and
other guidelines that support this vision. These will be upheld during the meetings.
•All remarks and testimony shall be limited to matters related to city business.
•No participant shall make threats or use other forms of intimidation against any person.
•Obscenity, racial epithets, and other speech and behavior that disrupts or otherwise
impedes the ability to conduct the meeting are prohibited.
•In-person participants are asked to refrain from expressing support or disagreement
verbally or with applause. Traditionally, support is shown silently through American Sign
Language ‘applause’ signal.
21
Public Comment
22
Commission Work Items
23
Commission Work Items
•Continued work on how to support the City’s work with TribalNations
•Continued work on rebuilding trust in the community
•Connecting other funders with grantees and the arts community
•Continued work with the City’s Legislative Liaison
•Coaching sessions with arts organizations on fundraising, venues,and marketing strategies
•Connecting youth with arts opportunities, such as CU Boulder,YOAB, and youth opportunities in projects
24
Grant Program Matters
25
Grant Reports
Received follow-up from BaoBao Foundation (see Manager's Update)
For consideration:
•Street Wise Arts, Street Wise Mural Festival, $10,000
•Junkyard Social Club, Boulder County’s STEAMFest,$3,000
26
Grant Reports
At the meeting Commission members will vote on the
approval of the reports. Commissioners have the options to:
a.Approve all reports,
b.Approve individual reports,
c.Approve individual reports while submitting specific questions,
d.Postpone approval of individual reports pending the answers to
specific questions, and/or
e.Not approve individual reports and cancel the final payments.
27
Grant Reports Vote
Recommended Motion Language:
“I move that we approve the grant reports from Street Wise
Arts and Junkyard Social.”
28
Upcoming Dates
•2025 Grant Program is ready to view
•Cultural Organizations Summit December 11 at Chautauqua
Community House, 11:30am to 1:00 pm
•Grant Info Sessions
•Thursday, November 21 at 11:30 a.m. at the Office of Arts and Culture
•Thursday, December 12 at 4 p.m. (Zoom)
29
Fin
30
Public Art Action Items
January 29, 2025
Attachment Three
WCC Final Approval
31
Process/Finalist Approval
Western City Campus (WCC)
Three project sites and budgets:
•WCC Plaza - $300,000
•Pavilion Lobby and Garage Atrium – $450,000
•Garage Stairwell - $100,000
32
WCC Sites for Art
33
Process to date
>March 2024: Orientation Meeting (Draft RFQ)
>August 2024: Finalist Artist Selection Meeting
(select finalists for each of the three projects)
>December 2024: Finalist Proposal Presentations
and Selection
34
WCC Public Art Selection Panel Members (Voting):
Artist: Helen Masvikeni -Masango – Business Owner, Photographer
Arts Professional: Leah Brenner Clack - Executive Director, NoBo Art District
Arts Commissioner: Maria Cole - Architect/Planner, Studio Cole
Community Member: Liz Compos - Artist, Marketing and Community Events
Manager, Lucky's Market
Community Member: Ian Swallow -Senior Development Project Manager,
Boulder Housing Partners
35
WCC Public Art Technical Review Committee
(Non-voting):
Michele Crane, Facilities and Fleet Deputy Director
Adam Goldstone, Facilities Senior Project Manager
Leana Evenson, Facilities Construction Project Analyst
Erika Garcia, Facilities Custodian Supervisor
Jason Cahalan, Facilities Maintenance Technician III
Kate Krikorian, ZGF Architects
Jenny Lee, ZGF Architects
Suejin Park, ZGF Architect
36
WCC Public Art Semifinalist Review Criteria:
•Inherent Artistic Qualities
•Context
•Ability to Maintain and Install
•Time Horizon of Artwork
•Diversity
•Uniqueness
37
WCC Plaza Public Art Proposals
Rendering of Plaza
38
From the Request for Qualifications:
The selection panel members have created specific goals and parameters for this
public art project with the hope of creating a unique and inspiring work of art for
the diverse communities that will soon live, work and visit the Western City
Campus. The panel is looking for artwork(s) that are playful, welcoming, kid-
friendly, and provide a cultural connection to the campus. The work could also
be interactive and have a community engagement component. Works should be
bright, colorful and imaginative and create a sense of belonging. Works that
demonstrate the connection between human activity and the natural
environment, and tell the story of the place - geologically, socially and
ecologically, are encouraged.
Budget: $300,000, National Call
39
Scott Trimble – Untitled - Seattle, WA
40
Scott Trimble Feedback (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•liked the fluidity of the shape and curve in contrast to the sharp lines of the
building
•colorfulness was good because it appealed to the fun, bright, kid-friendly request
in the call, but also spoke to Boulder/the geography
•inviting people in to experience, touch, play -- also from the call
Cons:
•too many issues, especially with safety; powder-coated metal would be a huge
problem; lots of technical issues
•didn't feel unique
•felt that the narrative wasn't easy to understand from outside--might require more
explanation/signage
41
Marc Fornes – Untitled – Brooklyn, NY
42
Marc Fornes Feedback
(TRC could not accommodate the new proposed location)
Pros:
•thoughtfulness in it being interactive and engaging
•liked the shadows it casts, team seems sophisticated and capable
•liked the size/scale of it, liked how much space it takes up in the plaza
Cons:
•underwhelmed by the proposal for WCC vs his previous work
•piece wouldn't work if we had to move it to the original suggested location because
interactive is important
•thought the was underwhelming and wouldn't want it if it wasn't in the plaza
43
Matthew Mazzotta – Cohabitat – Canton, NY
44
Matthew Mazzotta Feedback (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•so fun, gets people smiling, brings joy
•would draw people in from the street/sidewalk -- which is powerful for this type of
public space
•really stands out as unique and surprising, excellent
•really fun and playful, animal choice was thoughtful, nice contrast with the
building
Cons:
•worried about the vegetation not being consistently hiding the fox face -- can the
city maintain that?
•is it timeless? Concerned it might not seem cool in the future
•concerns about fiberglass material
45
Selection Panel Recommendation
Matthew Mazzotta (Unanimous vote for Cohabitat)
Feedback for Matthew Mazzotta
•Work with City staff, designers and public art to ensure the foliage
covers adequately
•Get sample of painted fiberglass, and more info on durability of
material
•Fox should have a full face (not partial, in case foliage is thin)
46
Next Steps.
•Arts Commission Moves to Approve Process and Finalist
•Advance to City Manager’s Office for Approval/Contracting
•Follow up with concerns from panel to ensure design meets
expectations.
47
Questions about Process?
48
Proposed Motion:
“I move that we approve this process was properly conducted
and recommend that the proposal by artist Matthew Mazzotta
advance to the City Manager for final approval.”
49
WCC Pavilion Lobby and Garage Atrium Public
Art Proposals
Rendering of Lobby and Atrium
50
From the Request for Qualifications:
The selection panel members have created specific goals and parameters for this
public art project with the hope of creating a unique and inspiring work of art for
the diverse communities that will soon work and visit the Western City Campus.
The panel is looking to commission two suspended indoor artworks that will
serve as a dynamic gateway to the campus. The panel is looking for artwork(s)
that create a distinct connection to the natural world and have a strong daytime
and nighttime presence. Works that demonstrate the connection between
human activity and the natural environment, and tell the story of the place -
geologically, socially and ecologically, are encouraged. Artworks will be visible
from the street and should also enhance the experience for those who will work
or live at the campus.
Budget: $450,000 (for two suspended artworks), International Call
51
Benjamin Ball – Untitled – Los Angeles, CA
52
Benjamin Ball Feedback (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•striking work in general
•liked the patterns as you move around; integrated thoughtfully into the building's
structure
•would be mesmerizing
Cons:
•didn’t like the overall shapes
•didn't feel unique or different from past work
•ot meaningful or site-specific enough
53
Isabel Judez – Pliable Heritage – Paris, FR
54
Isabel Judez Feedback (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•appreciated inclusion of cultural piece
•was ambitious
•it involved the local community
•liked the ephemerality and use of new materials
Cons:
•concerned with all the moving pieces; too ambitious; not convinced of her ability to
deliver on her plans
•needs more information on the materials
•worried that it won't make much of a visual impact -- too delicate, will get lost in
the big space
•worried the colors won't contrast well; too many moving pieces; most excited
about sound aspect
•worried some of the designs (teepee for ex.) need more thinking-through
Soo Sunny Park– Altered Topography: Flatiron Abstraction and
Split/Together: Boulder Creek – Canton, NY
56
Soo Sunny Park (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•loved the color and lighting, liked that it creates lighting effects without
electrical elements
•has the potential to really "wow" people
•very thoughtful, liked rectilinear shapes; she seemed confident and capable
•confident in the artist's ability to consider; likes the focus on liminal spaces
and thinks that fits well with Boulder; liked the references to rivers and
Flatirons; likes that she's the primary fabricator for the materials
Cons:
•concerns the work is on the smaller side
•concerned about possible glare for people in the building or on the street
57
Selection Panel Recommendation
Soo Sunny Park (Unanimous vote for Altered Topography: Flatiron
Abstraction and Split/Together: Boulder Creek)
Feedback for Soo Sunny Park
•Work designers and public art staff to ensure the piece fills the
lobby adequately
•Create more distinction in color stories between the two pieces
58
Next Steps.
•Arts Commission Moves to Approve Process and Finalist
•Advance to City Manager’s Office for Approval/Contracting
•Follow up with concerns from panel to ensure design meets
expectations.
59
Questions about Process?
60
Proposed Motion:
“I move that we approve this process was properly conducted
and recommend that the proposal by artist Soo Sunny Park
advance to the City Manager for final approval.”
61
WCC Garage Stairwell
Rendering of Garage Stairwell and elevator Bays
62
From the Request for Qualifications:
The selection panel members have created specific goals and parameters for this
public art project with the hope of creating a unique and inspiring work of art for
the diverse communities that will soon work and visit the Western City Campus.
The panel is looking for a two-dimensional indoor artwork that serves as an
inclusive gateway to the campus via the parking garage. Works that offer a
cultural connection, are welcoming, and create a sense of belonging while telling
the story of the place are encouraged. Artworks will be visible from the street
and should also enhance the experience for those who will work or live at the
campus. The selection panel is open to artwork made from materials that are easy
to clean and maintain, and suitable for indoor display.
Budget: $100,000 (for 2-D work such as mural), Local (Colorado-only) Call
63
Catie Michel – Untitled – Denver, CO
64
Catie Michel (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•super thoughtful, very planned out; detail and scale are great
•bright and airy; very thought out and intelligent; likes the community engagement
element
•so well researched; great answers to all the questions we asked; impressive detail
•super approachable; home run for Boulderites
•great for everyone in the community; depth of research is impressive; favorite
proposal in terms of composition
Cons:
•lacks human element
•maybe a little boring -- feels more governmental or museum-y rather than urban
and exciting
•maybe a little too simplistic
•too safe
65
Edica Pacha – Untitled – Denver, CO
66
Edica Pacha Feedback (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•excited by the photography and all the possibilities
•appreciated that images of humans are representational not specific
•scale would make it very striking
•liked the photographic style; feels universal
Cons:
•concerned that we don't have a clear idea of what it will actually look like
•confused about the narrative; underwhelmed
•struggled to know what it will actually look like; wouldn't have confidence in
choosing her over the others
67
Koko Colab – Untitled – Denver, CO
68
Koko Colab (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•liked the growing from the ground up and the connection to nature
•appreciated the diversity; liked the focus on health
•had a human element
•liked the narrative
•loved the composition and all the things in it; liked how the second mural is
more relaxing and different from the first
Cons:
•it felt too somber -- like surrealist dystopia
•too serious -- wouldn't be good for people working and living there -- the design
should cheer people up more
69
Bimmer Torres – Infinite Flow – Arvada, CO
70
Bimmer Torres (No issues from TRC)
Pros:
•really thought-through; contained a lot; incorporated all the concepts we asked
for in the RFQ; has confidence in his artistic abilities
•so beautiful; loved the narrative and cultural symbols
•beautiful colors; liked that it included human forms, not just natural/animal
•authentic; would add more to a sense of place
•liked how we wove together many concepts; liked the options for second
location; likes the emotion and the vibrancy of color
Cons:
•concerns about the images of faces and possible stereotyping
•too ambitious
•missing the educational aspect some of the others had; the two women pictured at
the bottom seems too generaic
71
Selection Panel Recommendation
Bimmer Torres (Unanimous vote for Infinite Flow)
Feedback for Bimmer Torres
•Do the extra wall option, not the illuminated paint option
•Make sure to really research what the indigenous faces (and
clothing) should look like - consult with Creative Nations if
needed
•Don't paint the underside of the stairs
•Rethink the two women hiking at the bottom, maybe replace with
two bear cubs?
•Make the background color swirls less colorful/heavy
72
Next Steps.
•Arts Commission Moves to Approve Process and Finalist
•Advance to City Manager’s Office for Approval/Contracting
•Follow up with concerns from panel to ensure design meets
expectations.
73
Questions about Process?
74
Proposed Motion:
“I move that we approve this process was properly conducted
and recommend that the proposal by artist Bimmer Torres
advance to the City Manager for final approval.”
75
Attachment Four
Commission Correspondence
From: Hannah Davis <davis.hannah.r@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:51 AM
Subject: Invitation to Adopt Plant-Based Meals by Default for Board Meetings
To: <aspiringnomad1@gmail.com>, <m.cole205@gmail.com>, <jeffreyakash@gmail.com>,
<jill@junkyardsocialclub.org>, <carolinekert@gmail.com>, <georgiamichelle@hotmail.com>,
<yaelaedart@gmail.com>, <clickl@bouldercolorado.gov>
Hi Sheryl, Maria, Jeffrey, Jill, Caroline, Georgia, Yaelaed, and Lauren -
My name is Hannah Davis, and I am emailing you on behalf of the entire Environmental Advisory Board. We are
excited to share that the Environmental Advisory Board has adopted a plant -based by default approach for food at
our meetings, and we would love for the Arts Commission to join us!
What is plant-based by default?
This means plant-based meals are the default catering option, while attendees can still choose meat and dairy
options if they prefer.
This initiative serves as a symbol of our commitment to Boulder’s climate action goals. It aligns our actions with
the values we’ve set for sustainability, and it also presents a valuable opportunity for public awareness and
education. By making plant-based options the default, we open up conversations about how our everyday choices
-- like what we eat -- connect to larger environmental issues.
Animal agriculture significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions , and Boulder is no exception. Boulder’s
Consumption-Based Emissions Inventory identifies food as the community's second-largest source of emissions,
right after transportation. Research consistently shows that reducing meat and dairy consumption is the most
effective way to lower food-related emissions. Given this, the Environmental Advisory Board believes it is crucial to
advocate for policies that align with Boulder’s climate goals and help the city reduce its food-related carbon
footprint.
By adopting this approach, Boulder’s Boards and Commissions can lead by example and promote more
sustainable, inclusive catering in our city and beyond. We have had discussions with the City Manager, Nuria
Rivera-Vandermyde, and the Director of Climate Initiatives, Jonathan Koehn, who both support the intention of this
effort.
We’ve created a FAQ and Implementation Guide for more details on how this works. I’d happily answer any
questions via email, present at your next board meeting, or meet with your staff liaison one -on-one to make
adoption easy.
Please let us know if your board would like to participate. This invitation is going out to all of Boulder’s Boards
and Commissions and City Council. Your support is crucial to making this a community -led effort.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
Best regards,
Hannah, Brook, Hernán, Alex, and Anie
The Environmental Advisory Board
76
Hannah Davis
207-242-1651
77
How to Implement a Plant-Based by
Default Food Ordering
A How-To Guide for City of Boulder Boards, Commissions, and City Council Meetings
Why are Plant-Based Defaults (PBD) Important
Offering plant-based meals as the default option can reduce meat consumption by 53% to 87%.
This shift leads to an average 40% reduction in food-related greenhouse gas emissions and a
24% decrease in water usage (and saves money!)
Implementation Support
Switching to PBD is simple, but the initiative requires internal champions to support it. Studies
have shown a 90% approval rate among diners when implemented correctly. We want to be here
to make this transition easy and support you. If you have questions or would prefer an in-person
or video-recorded guide on implementation, please email Environmental Advisory Board (EAB)
member Hannah Davis.davis.hannah.r@gmail.com.
How to Implement
We assume all current board members have opted into the program via our initial invitation. For
new members, please send them an email (template here) upon joining the board that explains
PBD.
All food orders should be plant-based, meaning they should not include meat, dairy,fish, or eggs
unless an attendee requests to add any of those ingredients.The PBD model is meant to
accommodate everyone’s needs, so any attendee is welcome to modify it as they need to. The
goal is to change the default option and, in doing so, reduce the amount of meat and dairy
served.
Plant-Based Food Ordering
Group Buffet Order
Attachment Five
Plant Based Default Implementation FAQ
78
Template Language
“We will order a [breakfast/lunch/dinner] buffet for our upcoming meeting. The menu will be
plant-based by default. Please let me know by [XXX] date if you’d like to include any non
plant-based options with your order.”
ALTERNATIVE: “Moving forward, our group orders will be plant-based by default. If you would
like to request meat or dairy in your group orders moving forward, please let me know now for all
future events.”
How to Implement
- If meat and dairy options are included, place all plant-based options at the beginning and
end of the buffet lines.
- If only a few people requested add-ons, place their individual meat/dairy options in a
separate section (or give them directly)
- If ordering with meat and dairy, try to offer at least two plant-based options for every
option containing animal products.
- Ideally, the buffet should be all plant-based, with a sign indicating a meat or dairy option is
available and kept separate from the rest of the options.
Individual Menu Ordering
Example language (to send with order request): “Please send me your order at [XXX restaurant]
for our upcoming board meeting by [XXX date]. You are welcome to order anything you’d like, but
as a reminder, our board is practicing a plant-based by default approach to food ordering to
support the city's efforts in reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions.”
Food Ordering Ideas
Most restaurants can accommodate plant-based ordering easily. We encourage the city to
support a variety of local restaurants. If you’re stuck with food ordering options, ask the
restaurant for support and discuss our plant-based ordering initiatives openly. Additionally, the
city maintains a list of restaurant contact information that can be found at
Restaurants_Catering_Vendors_December2019-1-202001151419.pdf (bouldercolorado.gov). The
EAB has updated this vendor list to note those who offer various plant-based options.
What else can the City of Boulder do?
The Environmental Advisory Board encourages the city to adopt a city-wide approach to
plant-based by default, making all internal and external meetings and events plant-based.
In addition, other proven strategies to reduce negative climate impacts of animal agriculture
include:
79
- Oat Milk by Default (replacing cow’s milk as the default)
- Improve vegan ratios when ordering, i.e. try to have a 2:1 ratio vegan to animal-based
- Don’t label foods vegan or plant-based, but rather use descriptive labels that emphizie
the flavor, origin, or health
- Suble substitutes (flax seed for eggs)
- Small meat reductions, i.e. less chicken in the chicken burrito and more beans
80
Attachment Six
Current Cultural Grants Program Budget as of January 21, 2025
GRANT
CATEGORY
ASSIGNED
BUDGET
ACTUAL
BUDGET
GRANTS
AWARDED BALANCE
GOS: Extra Large Orgs (Renewal) $495,000 $495,000 $0 $495,000
GOS: XL Orgs (New, est.) $110,000 $110,000 $0 $110,000
GOS: Large Orgs (Renewal) $220,000 $220,000 $0 $220,000
GOS: Large Orgs (New, est.) $88,000 $88,000 $0 $88,000
GOS: Mid Orgs (Renewal) $99,000 $99,000 $0 $99,000
GOS: Mid Orgs (New, est.)) $55,000 $55,000 $0 $55,000
GOS: Small Orgs (Renewal) $123,000 $123,000 $0 $123,000
GOS: Small Orgs (New, est.) $44,000 $44,000 $0 $44,000
Community Projects: Indv. $25,000 $25,000 $0 $25,000
Community Projects: Orgs. $60,000 $60,000 $0 $60,000
Arts Education $30,000 $30,000 $0 $30,000
Rental Assistance Fund $37,000 $37,000 $13,700 $23,300
Artist Hiring Incentive Grant $54,000 $54,000 $18,000 $36,000
Prof. Dev. Scholarships $8,000 $8,000 $4,000 $4,000
Leadership Pipeline Fund $16,000 $16,000 $0 $16,000
Cultural Field Trips $10,000 $10,000 $0 $10,000
Assistance for Grant Writing $4,000 $4,000 $1,500 $2,500
TOTAL $1,478,200 $1,478,200 $37,200 $1,441,000
There are 9 free rentals still available for the Macky Auditorium.
There are 12 free rentals still available from eTown Hall.
There are 11 free rentals still available from Roots Music Project.
81
Attachment Seven
Current Public Art Program 5 Year Budget as of January 22, 2025
FUNDING
SOURCE PROJECT/ARTIST
TOTAL
APPROPRIATE
D
AMOUNT
PAID TO DATE
BALANCE
REMAINING
2025 PROJECTED
SPENDING
Multiple 11th/ Spruce Garage $122,500 $6,125 $116,375 $116,375
CCS v2 Fire Station 3 (2021) $65,000 $65,000 $0 $0
Multiple Valmont Park Rain Garden $18,750 $18,750 $0 $0
% for Art Transportation (2023) $330,000 $0 $330,000 $0
% for Art Valmont City Park (2023) $144,000 $0 $144,000 $0
% for Art Central Ave Bridge
Replacement $25,000 $0 $25,000 $0
% for Art East Boulder Community
Center $430,000 $0 $0 $0
% for Art Fire Station 2 $130,000 $0 $0 $0
% for Art Fire Station 4 $120,000 $0 $0 $0
% for Art Gregory Canyon Creek $150,000 $0 $0 $0
% for Art Western City Campus
(Plaza) $300,000 $0 $0 $15,000
% for Art Western City Campus
(Lobby/Atrium) $450,000 $0 $0 $20,000
% for Art Western City Campus
(Garage Stairwell) $100,000 $0 $0 $5,000
TOTAL $156,375
CCS: Community Culture and Safety Tax
CCRS: Community Culture Resiliency and Safety Tax
Additional maintenance projects are not represented.
*Please note, this figure is expected to increase significantly in the coming months as project planning develops.
82