HomeMy WebLinkAbout040226 PTAC Agenda
Port Townsend Art Commission Meeting Agenda
April 2, 2026, | 3:00 p.m. | In-person and Remote Meeting
nd
The meeting will be held in Council Chambers on the 2 floor of the Historic City Hall.
The entrance is the first door on Madison Street, which opens to the elevator.
Attend in person or virtually via computer or tablet at
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Submit public comment emails to be included in the meeting record to:
https://publiccomment.fillout.com/cityofpt
A. Call to Order
B. Roll Call
C. Approval of Agenda
D. Approval of Minutes March 5, 2026
E. Public Comment (3 minutes per person)
Committee Business
F. Chair Update (5 mins)
G. Treasurer Update (5 mins)
H. Staff Update (5 mins)
a. May Planning Meeting
I. Workgroup updates
a. Poet Laureate
b. Public Art Committee
c. Grants – Discussion and Workshop
J. Correspondence
K. Set Agenda for Next Meeting
L. Next Scheduled Meeting May 7, 2026
M. Adjourn
Americans with Disabilities Act
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, those requiring accommodation for this meeting
should notify the City Clerk’s Office at least 24 hours prior to the meeting at (360) 379-5083.
Minutes of the Port Townsend Special Session Arts Commission Meeting of March5, 2026
LOCATION: In-person at City Council Chambers and Remote
MEMBERS’ PRESENT: Alexis Arrabito, Sheena Uritz, Joshua Saunders, Melanie Muszynski, Dan Groussman, Doug Caskey,
Christine WalshRogers, Heidi Tullmannand Simon Lynge.
STAFF PRESENT:Arts & Culture Coordinator Katy Goodman, and Deputy City Clerk Lonnie Mickle
Board Liaison:
Community Members:Amy Siedenstrang, Chiarra Klontz, Taylor Hamilton, Judith-Kate Friedman, Lori Hanemann, Michele
Soderstrom, David Thielk, Jen Cohen
TopicMotions/Recommendation/Action
Call to Order Chair Alexis Arrabito called the meeting to order at 3:03pm.
Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved by consensus.
Approval of Minutes for February 5, 2026 The amendment minutes were approved by consensus.
Public Comment The was no Public Comment for this meeting
Committee Business The Commissioners and staff spoke with applicants for
Grant Funding grants. After the discussion, Commissioner Doug Caskey
moved to award Jen Cohen/Raw Art Collective a total of
$500.00, David Thielk/ Port Townsend Community Dancea
total of $1,000.00, PT Artscape a total of $1,000.00,
Jefferson County Farmers Marketa total of $1,500.00, The
Production Alliancea total of $ 2,500.00, Port Townsend
PTAa total of $800.00, Port Townsend School of
Woodworkinga total of $1,500.00, Iván Espinosa/ Salish
Sea BUTOH Festival a total of $1000.00, Leila Block/
Flamenco workshopa total of $1,000.00, Tristan Marcum/
Bringing Supaman Back toPT a total of $1,150.00, and
Songwriting Works Educational Foundationa total of
$1,550.00. Commissioner Simon Lyngeseconded. Motion
passed unanimously.
Set Agenda for Next Meeting BusinessMeeting.
Next Scheduled Meeting April2, 2026.
Adjourn This meeting adjourned at 5:02pm.
Works of the City Poet Laureate 2026
1. Farmers Market Opening
8:45 a.m., Saturday, April 4
Lawrence St.
2. City Council Meeting - Opening Poem
6:00 p.m. Monday, April 6
3. poems of the moment
6:00 p.m., Thursday April 9
w
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Mission for 2026 as a poet laureate: T
City or Library Requested Activities
C
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Upcoming city requests
1
“Out in the Wild” Poetry
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Participation and Cultivation of Practice through Poetry and Writing Community
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Other Activities
2
2026 Workplan – Port Townsend Arts Commission
The Arts Commission facilitates public arts programs that enhance the
cultural life of community residents.
- Enact next steps to update the City’s 1% for Art program and City code, so that this
mechanism can be truly effective in funding public art projects year over year,
establishing PT as a city where public art thrives and can be enjoyed by all.
- Protect and expand Port Townsend’s investment in community-enriching public art now
and into the future. Use the 2025 Public Art plan to support maintenance, enhancement,
and promotion of the City’s public art collection.
- Continue and grow PTAC’s support for artists through our programs, including but not
limited to, the Poet Laureate initiative, Arts Awards, and Grants, as well as leveraging new
resources and partnerships to make measurable progress towards goals set forth in the
Port Townsend Creative District Arts & Culture Plan.
City PTAC Budget 2026
ItemBudgetExpendedRemainderNOTES
Programs
Grants to Artists $ 30,000.00 $ 13,500.00 $ 16,500.00
Stipend for year 1
Poet Laureate $ 1,500.00 $ 1,500.00 $ -
For poet laureate program projects
$ 2,000.00 $ 1,300.00 $ 700.00
TBD
Public Art $ -
TBD
1% for Public Art $ -
Art Awards $ 7,500.00 $ 1,884.05 $ 5,615.95
$ -
TBD
Marketing $ 1,200.00 $ 1,200.00
TBD
Print / Web Publication $ -
$ -
Creative Assets $ -
Photo/Video $ 6,500.00 $ 6,500.00 Grantee videos for artist and city use
$ -
Application Software$ 100.00$ 100.00Fillout
$ -
$ 30,515.95
TOTAL$ 48,800.00$ 18,284.05
City of Port Townsend Arts Commission (PTAC)
2026 Meeting Schedule - Proposed
City of Port Townsend Arts Commission Mission Statement
The Arts Commission's mission as an appointed City Commission is to facilitate public arts
programs that enhance the cultural life of community residents.
Overview
This document is a flexible summary of the annual approach to PTAC meetings in 2026 and the
st
development of the PTAC budget. PTAC meets on 1 Thursdays, from 3:00-5:00PM. The development of
the PTAC budget is part of the development of the City of Port Townsend budget, and resides in the
General Fund, with contributions as approved by City Council each year. This process begins nearly six
months before the start of the subsequent year and includes state-mandated statutory milestones and
deadlines.
1. January – Program Planning Part 1: 2026 Grant Criteria & Art Awards
Discussion of grant program specifics, including application, criteria, and any marketing or public
education opportunities.
2. February – Program Planning Part 2: Annual Arts Awards and Public Art
Confirm Art Award winners and plans for ceremony. Discuss revisions/updates to Public Art Plan
Policies and Procedures.
3. March – Quarterly Grant Funding; Launch 2027 Art Award Nominations
4. April – Poet Laureate Visit and Mural Policy
Visit and update with Poet Laureate. Mural policy updates and review.
5. May – Workplan Strategic Session
PTAC receives request from Mayor/City Manager to PTAC (and all City advisory boards) for
workplan items and preliminary budget request. PTAC reviews progress on the 2025 workplan,
strategizes on multi-year initiatives and the 2026 workplan, and considers priorities for next
fiscal year in order to suggest a preliminary PTAC workplan.
6. June – Quarterly Grant Funding
7. July – Mid Year Review and Budget Strategic Session
PTAC discusses all 2026 programs and makes mid-year assessments. Discussion on budget to
pair with workplan and submits a recommendation to staff and City Council in advance of a
decision on the preliminary City budget. (City Council may choose to approve/incorporate or
may send the recommendation back to PTAC for further discussion).
8. August – PTAC Operations and Development
Review internal processes, brand identity, recruitment, etc; Refresh on OPMA and Robert’s
Rules
9. September – Quarterly Grant Funding
10. October – Poet Laureate Visit, Art Awards and 2027 Grant Planning
Visit and update with Poet Laureate. Art Award nominations status and planning for 2027
Ceremony; 2027 grant deadlines and updates to grants program
11. November – 1% for the Arts and Public Art Plan Review
Invitation to Public Works Director to discuss possible 1% eligible projects in Capital Facilities
Plan. Annual review of Public Art Plan.
12. December – Annual Review. PTAC reviews the 2026 workplan, reviews 2026 granting data and
budget expenditures, plans annual meeting schedule, and ties up loose ends in discussion.
Board and Commission Priorities 2026 - Policy Recommendations to Council:
1. Artistic Mural code recommendation to Council
2. Update of Art in Public Places Policies and Procedures recommendation to Council
3. 1% for the Arts status update and possible projects
Agenda and Information for 3/19
Agenda and Information for 3/19Public Art Committee Meeting
1. Skatepark Grant Proposal Updates
o Artist Selection Committee -Meeting prep and questions as guided by AP4
o Review Draft Call for Artist: Draft Call for Artists -WIP.docx.
o Site Exhibits -WIP: Site Photos and Plan.pdf
2.Continue
document review by council in 2026)
See markup with comments from last meeting here:
--4f46-9fed-
See examples from other cities here: Public Art Policies for Comparison
3. Murals is on the agenda for April PTAC meeting. How does PAC want to approach this
discussion?
o Report on advice from City Attorney re: Historic District
o See attachments for current status
4. Discussion: Plaques for Kah Tai Tiles and Boundary Marker (Action item: guidelines for
plaque creation and language) (See email attached) and:
https://cityofpt.us/bc/page/boundary-markers-puget-sound-0
https://cityofpt.us/bc/page/kah-tai-community-tiles
Old/New Business
Maintenance Kit Status Update
Poems Accessioning
Street painting
Art Markers
ARTS COMMISSION (9 max.)
Council Liaison: Libby Wennstrom
Meets 3:00pm 1st Thursday at City Hall
Pos.NameExp.
Simon Lynge5/1/26
1
Alexis Arrabito5/1/26
2
5/1/26
3
Melanie Muszynski
Heidi Tullman 5/1/27
4
Joshua Saunders5/1/28
5
6 Sheena Uritz 5/1/28
Christine Walsh Rogers 5/1/27
7
Dan Groussman5/1/28
8
Doug Caskey 5/1/27
9
Agenda and Information for 3/19
Agenda and Information for 3/19Public Art Committee Meeting
1. Skatepark Grant Proposal Updates
o Artist Selection Committee -Meeting prep and questions as guided by AP4
o Review Draft Call for Artist: Draft Call for Artists -WIP.docx.
o Site Exhibits -WIP: Site Photos and Plan.pdf
2.Continue
document review by council in 2026)
See markup with comments from last meeting here:
--4f46-9fed-
See examples from other cities here: Public Art Policies for Comparison
3. Murals is on the agenda for April PTAC meeting. How does PAC want to approach this
discussion?
o Report on advice from City Attorney re: Historic District
o See attachments for current status
4. Discussion: Plaques for Kah Tai Tiles and Boundary Marker (Action item: guidelines for
plaque creation and language) (See email attached) and:
https://cityofpt.us/bc/page/boundary-markers-puget-sound-0
https://cityofpt.us/bc/page/kah-tai-community-tiles
Old/New Business
Maintenance Kit Status Update
Poems Accessioning
Street painting
Art Markers
City of Port Townsend
DESIGN GUIDELINES
for
MURALS
in the
Special Overlay Design Review &
National Landmark Historic Districts
PURPOSE
These Design Guidelines are established for the following purposes:
1. To supplement land use regulations which encourage and promote public health, safety
and welfare of the citizens of Port Townsend.
2. To provide guidance to urban design decisions that will promote development of high
environmental and visual quality throughout the City.
3. To assist applicants in the preparation of development applications.
4. To assist decision-making by the Historic Preservation Committee in the review of
development applications.
INTRODUCTION
The design guidelines for murals in the commercial areas of the Port Townsend National
Landmark Historic District and in the Special Overlay Design Review District are intended to be
used as an aid to appropriate design and not as a checklist for compliance. The purpose of the
guidelines is to create awareness of the unique character of the District during the design of
murals. These guidelines identify the design elements deemed important in reviewing murals for
appropriateness and are the basis for decisions made by the Historic Preservation Committee.
DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of these guidelines, the following definitions shall apply:
Mural Signs are wall signs containing advertising, which consist exclusively of paint
applied to the wall of a building without application of any other material or framing.
The Port Townsend Municipal Code 17.08 defines advertising as: any display of letters,
numerals, characters, words, symbols, emblems, illustrations, objects, or registered
trademarks which serve to call to the attention of the public products, services,
businesses, buildings, premises, events, candidates, or ballot propositions.
Artistic Murals consist exclusively of paint applied to the wall of a building without
application of any other material or framing, and which contain no advertising.
Rev. 2022
Page 1 of 4
GUIDELINES
I. MURAL SIGN GUIDELINES
A. New Mural Signs on Unpainted Surfaces:
No new mural signs shall be permitted on unpainted brick, unpainted and painted stone,
wood sidings with surface detail (i.e., bevel siding or board and batten siding, etc.) or any
other material which does not have a flat planar character.
B. New Mural Signs on Other Surfaces:
New mural signs on surfaces other than those identified above in Item A shall meet the
following criteria.
1. Mural signs shall be designed to complement the architectural and historic
Character of the Historic District.
2. Mural signs shall not interrupt detract, or overwhelm the historic architectural
features of the building. Rather, they shall comply with the guidelines below:
a. Mural signs shall not be located only on planar or flat surfaces of buildings
and shall not overlap architectural features such as cornices, beams, columns,
trim, windows, doors, vents, control joints in plaster, etc.
b. Mural signs shall reinforce the size, shape and proportions of building features
such as column bays, window proportions and placement, planar wall
proportions, etc.
c. Mural signs shall be placed within column bays, windows, planar walls, etc.
so as to have a minimum border separation of 25% of the shortest mural
dimension from architectural features.
d. Mural signs shall be laid out parallel and orthogonal (at a right angle) to the
buildings architectural elements such as columns, beams, trim, cornices,
parapets, etc.
e.
framework to reinforce a sense of balance of the overall mural/architectural
composition.
3. Mural signs shall not be located on the primary street façade of buildings.
a. For buildings located on corners, murals shall not be located on the primary
street façade but may be located on the secondary street façade provided the
murals conform with the other requirements of these guidelines.
4. Mural signs shall not exceed 60 square feet in area. Exception: Where large
expansive planar walls over 2,000 square feet in uninterrupted area occur, larger
murals may be permitted provided they meet other mural sign guidelines and
provided that the murals do not overwhelm the size, scale, design and historic
integrity of the building as determined by the Historic Preservation Commission.
5. Murals shall be located, designed, and proportioned to reinforce the building
façade proportions and to reinforce the vertical nature of the district.
6. Colors shall be drawn from the Port Townsend National Landmark Historic
District Approved Color Palette; other colors must be approved by the Historic
Preservation Committee.
7. Applicants shall demonstrate that preparation, priming and finish painting
materials shall not damage the surface of the building and that the finished
application shall not lead to the surface deteriorating in an accelerated fashion
over time.
8.
9. New mural signs shall protect the historical significance of the district by making
a visual distinction between old and new murals; new murals shall reflect the late
th
19 century period without imitating it and applying the following:
a. Since the historic murals primarily emphasize lettering with simple
trademarks, new murals shall be simple in nature and direct in approach
with a complimentary emphasis on lettering and simple trademarks
without copying historic images.
b. New murals shall have simple, rectangular fields, which contain all
lettering, trademarks, and imagery. Borders or implied borders are
suggested to reinforce the containment of images within the mural and
minimize the impact on the architectural character of the building.
C. Repainting Existing Recent Murals
1. Recent murals are those believed to have been painted within the last 50 years and
are in existence on December 31, 1992. Recent murals include, but are not
limited to:
a. Tree of Heaven, Mount Baker Block (Artistic Mural)
b. (Artistic Mural)
c. (Mural Sign)
d. (Mural Sign)
e. Port Townsend Athletic Club, 229 Monroe (Mural Sign)
f. Mary Kaiser Design, 807 Washington (Artistic Mural)
g. Abundant Life Seed Foundation, 1029 Lawrence (Mural Sign)
h. The Gym, 1530 Franklin (Mural Sign)
i. (Mural Sign)
j. R & D PT Paint, 215 Decatur St. (Mural Sign)
k. PT Outdoors, 1001 Water Street (Mural Sign)
l. Cheeks Bistro-1001 Water Street (Mural Sign)
2. Existing recent mural signs may be repainted with Historic Preservation
Committee review if the applicant can show that repainting would not likely
accelerate deterioration of the brick.
D. Abandoned Mural Signs
1. Recent and new mural signs, which become abandoned, shall be allowed to
remain until such time as a new mural is approved for the site.
E. Historic Murals
1. No existing murals other than those listed under paragraph C(1) above, may be
repainted, painted out, removed or otherwise disturbed or altered, except where
structural integrity of the building is at stake.
2. Historic Preservation Committee review of the restoration of historic murals.
3. If the building is repainted, it must be done in a way that follows the Secretary of
Historic Buildings. After repainting, new grout should be painted to match the
color and surface quality of the existing sign.
4. Prior to tuck pointing, photographic documentation of the historic signs shall be
undertaken. Photographs shall be taken by a professional photographer using a
large format camera (not 35 mm) at as near straight-on-view as possible. The
photographs (at least four 8 x 8 inch color prints) shall be provided to the Historic
Preservation Committee.
5. Historic photographic documentation of the signs (if any) shall also be collected
and chronicled and made available to the Historic Preservation Committee upon
request.
II. ARTISTIC MURALS
Further discussion of artistic mural guidelines is postponed until after April, 1993, so the
Historic Preservation Committee may further research the subject.
th
Adopted this 26 day of January, 1993.
_/s/ Mike Yawman, Chair________
Adopted by Ordinance 2871
November 29, 2004
____________________________________________________
Director, PCD
Mural Process and Code Proposal
Prepared by the Port Townsend Arts Commission Public Art Committee
November 2025
Overview
The City of Port Townsend DESIGN GUIDELINES for MURALS in the Special Overlay Design Review
& National Landmark Historic Districts has few guidelines for Artistic Murals, including:
DEFINITIONS: Artistic Murals applied to the wall of a building without application of any other
framing, and which contain no advertising.
SECTION II: ARTISTIC MURALS Further discussion of artistic mural guidelines is
postponed until after April 1993, so the Historic Preservation Committee may further
research the subject.
The Port Townsend Arts Commission and members of the community have been strongly
advocating for the opportunity to create new artistic murals both in and outside of the historic
overlay districts. It is, in fact, one of the most voiced requests from the arts community.
After extensive research and conversations with other historic Washington State communities, the
cipal code as a baseline
model to assist in creating new guidelines for Port Townsend.
Please see this code below, annotated with recommendations from the Public Art Committee:
MURALS
Purpose.
A. In the city of Ellensburg, murals foster a sense of community and connection and enrich the
experience of both tourists and residents. Acknowledging that murals provide economic
benefits and enhance livability, the city's mural policy seeks both to preserve historic murals
already in existence and provide guidance for creation of new works of mural art.
B. On landmark properties and in historic districts, the policy seeks to allow the placement and
scale of new murals in such a way that the character-defining features of historic properties
are not obscured, covered, or otherwise adversely affected. The policy encourages artistic
expression through murals in appropriate locations with little intrusion into artistic
expression and content.
Applicability.
The standards for murals set forth in ECC 15.720.030(A) through (C) shall apply to all individual
properties within the city of Ellensburg. ECC 15.720.030(D) and (E) shall apply only to landmarks
register properties and districts listed on the Ellensburg landmarks register or on the National
Register of Historic Places. ECC 15.720.030(F) shall apply to historic murals.
Standards and guidelines.
Murals shall conform to the following requirements:
A. Permit required. Prior to installation, all murals require submission of an application and
issuance of a permit subject to the following provisions:
1. Applications for murals not on landmarks register properties and not in districts listed on
the Ellensburg landmarks register or on the National Register of Historic Places shall first be
reviewed by the arts commission in a public meeting for a recommendation which shall be
forwarded to the community development department (for Port Townsend, the PCD) when
issuing a permit. (Then to City Council for final approval.
2. Applications for murals located on landmarks register properties or in districts listed on
the Ellensburg landmarks register or on the National Register of Historic Places shall first be
reviewed by the arts commission in a public meeting, as referenced in subsection (A)(1) this
section, and shall also obtain a certificate of appropriateness (COA) (permit approval) from
the landmarks and design commission (HPC).
B. Murals as signs. Murals created after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter
that fall within the definition of a sign shall be regulated pursuant to the sign code, chapter as
currently enacted or hereafter amended. (Sign Code - PTMC Chapter 17.76)
C. Installation and maintenance of all approved murals.
1. Murals shall be installed in a manner to ensure that they withstand the elements to the
greatest degree that is feasible as determined by the community development department
(for Port Townsend, the PCD).
2. Murals shall use materials, coatings, or other protective techniques that will resist
vandalism, weathering by sun, water, wind and graffiti to the greatest degree feasible as
determined by the department.
3. Murals must be maintained by the building owner for the life of the mural or until the
mural is removed.
4. Application may be made for permanently installed murals or for temporary community-
designed murals. For temporary murals, community members may submit a design brief or
concept that meets limited public forum guidelines instead of a full design and do not need
to submit a maintenance plan. Temporary murals must be removed by property owner with
one year of installation.
D. Location, design and style of murals on landmark structures or in historic districts.
1. The design (not content) of murals on landmarks register properties and in districts listed
on the Ellensburg landmarks register or on the National Register of Historic Places must be
consistent and compatible with the architectural and historical character of the historic
district and the architectural features (column bays, windows, planar walls, cornices,
beams, columns, trim, windows, doors, etc.) of the building on which they are located.
2. Murals shall not be permitted to be placed directly on unpainted brick, unpainted or
painted stone, wood sidings with surface detail, or any other material that does not have a
planar or flat character. An exception to this provision may be allowable in instances where
new paint is applied onto the existing paint of an existing historic mural for the purpose of
restoration, and for which a COA has been obtained. Prior to the installation, the surface to
which the mural will be applied must be in a condition that would allow the permanent
attachment of the proposed mural.
3. Murals may not have electrical or mechanical components.
4. Three-dimensional murals are not allowed (see note for discussion)
5. Murals shall not be located on those facades of buildings that are immediately adjacent
to a street. A mural may be permitted on the side or rear of a building if it is (a)
noncontributing and (b) is not immediately adjacent to the sidewalk (recommend striking
this requirement and assessing proposals for all locations).
6. Murals must not damage or lead to accelerated deterioration of the building surface.
E. Alteration and removal of murals on landmark structures or in historic districts. (This
section may not be applicable as historic murals in Port Townsend fall under the definition
of Mural Signs.)
1. Alteration or removal of any existing or permitted mural on landmarks register properties
and districts listed on the Ellensburg landmarks register or on the National Register of
Historic Places requires a permit obtained through the process set forth in (reference PTMC
code here) ECC 15.280.090. Alteration or removal of historic murals shall only be made pursuant to
this subsection.
2. Alteration or removal of any existing or permitted mural shall not damage or lead to the
destruction or deterioration of a building or structure or adversely impact the architectural
or historic character of any building located within a historic district.
3. Any associated materials that were used to affix the mural to the surface must be
removed at the time of the removal of the mural. This includes, but is not limited to,
mounting hardware or brackets, caulk or grout, and adhesives or glues.
F. Historic Recent existing murals.
1. The landmarks and design commission will conduct a survey of existing murals and includes
those deemed historic in the Ellensburg landmarks register.
Recent murals are those believed to have been painted within the last 50 years (as of 1992) and are
in existence on December 31, 1992. Recent murals include, but are not limited to:
a. Tree of Heaven, Mount Baker Block (Artistic Mural)
e. Port Townsend Athletic Club, 229 Monroe (Mural Sign)
f. Mary Kaiser Design, 807 Washington (Artistic Mural)
g. Abundant Life Seed Foundation, 1029 Lawrence (Mural Sign)
h. The Gym, 1530 Franklin (Mural Sign)
i. Cinnamon's Apparel, 1005 Water (Mural Sign)
j. R & D PT Paint, 215 Decatur St. (Mural Sign)
k. PT Outdoors, 1001 Water Street (Mural Sign)
l. Cheeks Bistro-1001 Water Street (Mural Sign)
Existing recent mural signs (and artistic murals) may be repainted (or a permit to create new artistic
murals in these locations may be applied for) with Historic Preservation Committee review if the
applicant can show that repainting would not likely accelerate deterioration of the brick.
2. New murals shall not be painted over existing historic murals as defined in ECC 15.130.080 other
than those enumerated in this chapter.
(Suggest omitting the section below as other historic murals fall under policies regarding Mural
Signs as defined in the City of Port Townsend DESIGN GUIDELINES for MURALS in the Special
Overlay Design Review & National Landmark Historic Districts)
Historic murals may not be altered, repainted, painted out, removed, restored or otherwise
disturbed, unless the structural integrity of the building is at stake, without compliance with the
following:
a. Prior to the alteration, repainting, painting out, removal, restoration or other disturbance to an
historic mural the property owner shall obtain a COA. Application for a COA shall be reviewed by
the landmarks and design commission in accordance with the procedures set forth in ECC
15.280.090(C) and 15.280.100 (PTMC Code here) with the following exceptions:
i. The landmarks and design commission shall meet initially with the applicant to consider
alternatives to the alteration or removal including available incentives for preservation of the mural.
These negotiations may last no longer than 120 calendar days from the first meeting of the
landmarks and design commission unless the applicant agrees to an extension. During these
negotiations, the applicant should allow the commission to review the site and plans for the
alteration and/or removal of the mural. An alteration and/or removal notice must also be placed on
the property and published in the newspaper.
ii. If no request for an extension is made and no alternative has been agreed to and the applicant
has made a showing that such action is necessary to provide a reasonable beneficial use or
reasonable economic return, the landmarks and design commission shall issue a COA to the
applicant.
b. Prior to the permitted disturbance of an existing historic mural, photographic documentation of
the mural shall be collected and made available to the landmarks and design commission by the
department.
3. Any person aggrieved by any action of the landmarks and design commission in denying or
approving the applicant's request may file a notice of appeal as set forth in Chapter 15.230 ECC;
however, such appeals shall be to city council rather than to the hearing examiner.(This does not
seem to be common in PTMC code, suggest omitting)
4.The landmarks and design commission will review the possibility of initiating a program to restore
historic murals. (suggest omitting unless of interest to HPC)
Submittal requirements and approval process. (Suggest reviewing this as step two after agreeing to
general principles see process flow in street painting proposal)
A. All artists and building owners proposing murals on their properties shall first submit their
proposals for review by the arts commission in a public meeting for a recommendation which shall
be forwarded to (DCD > HPC?)for consideration when issuing a permit. Murals proposed to be
installed on any landmarks register properties or in districts listed on the Ellensburg landmarks
register or on the National Register of Historic Places must further be reviewed by the landmarks
and design commission and obtain a COA from that body.
B. All of the following materials must be submitted with application for a mural:
1. Drawings (elevation, site plan), photographs of building;
2. Map of landmark structures and historic districts within 300 feet of the proposed mural;
3. Written description, including materials used and how the mural will be affixed;
4. Color image of mural and artist's examples of past work, if any;
5. Written authorization from property owner; and
6. Maintenance plan.
(Suggest adding limited public forum language, as in Street Painting Code:) Strongly
agreed!
The city does not intend a street, sidewalk, or intersection painting or a community-
control the art displayed on all city property, including painting or other art installations
on city streets and sidewalks. The city reserves the right to deny a street painting permit
application or to remove a street, sidewalk, or intersection painting or community-
designed crosswalk if it depicts:
Permits will not be issued for Artistic Murals that depict:
Violent images
Sexually graphic images
Religious symbols or desecration of the same
Hatred of persons or groups of people
Support for or opposition to a candidate or initiative on the ballot
Advertisement for a good or service for sale
Imagery that may be inappropriate to maintain in or upon public property because
it is so objectionable under contemporary community standards that it is
reasonably foreseeable to result in harm to, disruption of, or interference with the
public
***
PTAC also recommends the definition of Murals from The City of Port Townsend DESIGN
GUIDELINES for MURALS in the Special Overlay Design Review & National Landmark Historic
Districts has few guidelines for Artistic Murals be updated to include the application of paint to
walls other than those in a building, such as retaining walls, fences, seawalls, and other
architectural features:
DEFINITIONS: Artistic Murals consist exclusively of paint applied to the wall of a
building or other built structure without application of any other material or
framing, and which contain no advertising.
FOR DISCUSSION: Murals of material other than paint
DEFINITIONS: Artistic Murals are artworks executed directly onto a wall and can be
created in a variety of materials, including paint, concrete, brick, wood, stone,
ceramic tile and other materials. Murals can be flat two-dimensional artworks,
especially those created in paint, or three dimensional designs described as
reliefs or friezes, no thicker than 1cm from the surface, and applied to the wall of a
building or other built structure, and which contain no advertising.
ARTIST SELECTION PANEL MEETING
Port Townsend Skate Park Mural
MEETING DATE: Monday, March 23, 2026
MEETING STARTED: 3:30pm
ATTENDANCE: Katy, Shawn, Melanie, Evan, Samantha, Alexis, Dan, Melody,
Zhenya (online), Christine (online)
PANELISTS EXCUSED: Leila, Joshua, Nicole
• Katy gave a background of the procedures for Call for Artist
• Katy provided a history of the grant process applied for by Creative District and
awarded by ArtsWA
• Katy provided a small history of the city’s Creative District and how it functions
• Katy noted the significance of this grant affecting the youth in our community in
view of the recent County funding cuts creating a “youth funding crisis”
- Evan raised questions about if another medium could be utilized. Both Evan
and Samantha relayed that many current park users would rather see
infrastructure rather than a mural. Katy clarified allowed use of the grant
related to how it was written/granted.
• Katy put the Call review materials on the overhead and began going over all the
particulars:
- Katy cited the Art in Public Places Policy and Procedures document (AP4)
as the source for the game plan moving forward
- Katy cited the 3 basic steps the group is to engage in:
1 – establish the type of call
2 – criteria > draft the call
3 – selection process artist selection panel > ptac > council
• Type of call:
Katy explained the 4 types of calls
ACTION ITEM: the group chose “local” geography and elected to use the
term “Jefferson County”
• Criteria:
ACTION ITEM: The Panel said it would like to see a preference to users
of park included in the criteria wording on the call
ACTION ITEM: The Panel indicated it would like to see the budget
explained in a clearer manner with line items noted
ACTION ITEM: add “and engage the community” under consideration
scope
ACTION ITEM: The Panel said it preferred wording in the Guidelines for
an artist or TEAM of artists but a team would be led by a single artist for
application clarity and function
• Submittal:
- The Panel indicated it would like to see 3 finalists each paid $500
• Schedule:
- The Panel indicated NO CHANGE in the proposed schedule
• Rubric:
- The Panel indicated the addition of wording to encompass “skate
community connection” – place in letter of interest section? – add words,
“nature and culture of Seamus…”
• Site:
- Sam and Evan indicated that the “grind rails” and small step in the middle
of the park be removed from mural consideration as there is discussion
about their imminent removal
- The Panel generally agreed that mural activity would not take place on the
front panel containing the existing park signage
th
• Katy noted next meeting is to be June 8 to select the finalists. Other notable
calendar dates are as follows:
Call to artists - March 31
Submittal deadline – May 25
REVIEW SUBMISSION PACKETS – May 26 > June 7
MEETING to select finalists – June 8 - 3:30pm
Artist Presentations at Cotton Building – June 23 – 5:30pm
Selected Artist recommended to Arts Commission – July 2 – 3pm
Selected Artist recommended to City Council – July 6 – 6pm
3:10pm – MEETING ADJOURNED
(minutes: Dan Groussman)
PUBLIC ART OPPORTUNITY
CALL FOR ARTISTS - Request for Proposals
Seamus Sims Skatepark Mural Project
The City of Port Townsend is seeking an artist or team of artists to create murals on vertical walls
at the Seamus Sims Skatepark. The Skatepark is located at 250 Monroe Street in Port Townsend,
WA.
CONTENTS:
I. GENERAL INFORMATION/PROJECT DESCRIPTION
II. ARTIST REQUIREMENTS
III. BUDGET
IV. SUBMITTAL GUIDELINES
V. SELECTION
VI. SELECTION PANEL
VII. PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE
VIII. RUBRIC/ SELECTION CRITERIA
IX. DESIGN CRITERIA
X. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CRITERIA
XI. CONTACT INFORMATION
XII. SITE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS
I. GENERALINFORMATION/PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The goal of this project is to create permanent painted artwork at the Seamus Sims Skatepark that
brings a vision of collaboration and creative expression to our streetscape. The project includes
commissioning a mural by a Jefferson County-based artist or artist team to be created in
consultation with the park's constituents. Currently, the park is unpainted, grey concrete, offering a
perfect canvas for artwork that reflects the vibrant culture that defines the activity and community
who use this resource. Applicants will submit a community engagement plan as well as a design
concept for approximately 1700 square feet of painted murals at the park. The site includes long
stretches of wall as well as smaller features to be integrated into the work. It does not include
skateable surfaces or bowls in the Park. Please see the site information and photos section for more
details.
1
The design should take into consideration ease of maintenance and resistance to vandalism. A
primer coat and anti-graffiti coating will be provided by the City. Plans should include multiple ways
to engage the community in the creative process. These activities will be supported by the City and
Creative District in collaboration withthe chosen artist(s).
II. ARTIST REQUIREMENTS:
The artist may be an individual orteam that applies together with a lead artist.
Artist is asked to submit evidence of work experience and past projects as they relate to this
call specifically addressing evidence of:
Experience relevant to this type of project
Evidence of communication skills: verbal, written, and visual
Experience working with other design professionals and/or with communities
Availability/ability to beginwork promptly and meet project schedules
Professional artists or teams may apply by submitting the requested materials to the City of Port
Townsend, which is coordinating the project through the Arts Commission and Creative District.
Highest consideration will be given to proposals from artists with connection to the Skate Park
community and/or skate culture although that will not be the only criterion used to judge applicants.
The submittal must demonstrate an ability to successfully complete the project and fulfill the project
criteria as described in this prospectus.
III. BUDGET:
Description of Grant Match
Project Expenses Expense Amount Amount Total Notes
Mural creation Matched through
and community private donations;
engagement by includes $1500 for
$5,500 $31,500
Artist fees artist/s $26,000 finalists
City of PT Planning
department in-kind
Building permits/fees City permit fees $750 $750 contribution
Site prep, priming,
Site preparation and clear
and clear coating; In-kind labor by City
coating
in-kind labor $7,000 $7,000 Parks department
Arts Fund budget
Paint
$2,600 $4,100 $6,700 contribution
Arts Fund budget
contribution for
Site materials primer and anti-
$1,400 $2,200 $3,600 graffiti clear coat
Total $30,000 $19,550 $49,550
The City will provide site prep, priming, and anti-graffiti coating. This amount includes applicable
taxes. Artists should consider costs for community engagement activities in their budget. Taxes,
insurance, and necessary licenses are the responsibility of the artist(s).
This project is being made possible by a Creative District grant from the Washington State Arts
2
Commission (ArtsWA) as well as City funds and in-kind support, and private contributions.
IV. SUBMITTAL GUIDELINES:
Please include the following with your submittal:
A one-page summary that includes a brief statement of your interest and concept for the project,
collaborative skills, relevant experience including community engagement and creative work, and
technical ability.
Current resume(s)/CV(s) of the artist/contractor(s) and any other team members.
Reference list that includes the names, addresses, and phone numbers of three professional
references who can speak to the quality of your artwork and experience in community-engaged
projects.
A summary of previous, related projects containing up to a total of 12 images. The summary may
work, brief project description, dimensions, date of completion, location of artwork, commissioning
agency, budget, and collaborators with whom you worked (if appropriate).
Artist teams should appoint one team member as the lead artist whose qualifications and
references will be used as the primary criteria for the team. They should submit a single summary
but provide individual resumes/CVs for each member.
Work samples should include work for all members not exceeding 12 imagesin total for the team.
Interested artists may submit their information to (FILLOUT FORM) Submittals may also be dropped
off in person on a thumb drive at:
City of Port Townsend
ATTN: Katy Goodman
250 Madison Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
V. SELECTION:
Procedures, which includes convening an Artist Selection Panel made up of community members,
City Advisory Board members, and the Public Art Committee.
The Artist Selection Panel will decide upon up to three artists or artist teams as finalists based on
project concept, qualifications, the strength and quality of past work as demonstrated by their
resume and images of past projects. Finalists will be paid $500 to prepare and present their
engagement plan and design concept in a public meeting at the Cotton Building on Tuesday, June
rd
23, 2026. The artists may be asked to follow up (in person or online) with the selection panel after
this event to answer any further questions. The City of Port Townsend reserves the right not to
award the project to any artists if they are not satisfied after these presentations.
All decisions and recommendations of the Artist Selection Panel are advisory and must be formally
reviewed and accepted by the Port Townsend Art Commission and City Council prior to being
considered final. If the selected artist(s) is approved by the City Council, the artist or team is
3
expected to enter into a formal contract with the City of Port Townsend for the final process, design,
and installation. The selected artist or team will be required to obtain a Washington state tax
identification number, a City of Port Townsend Business License, and provide proof of insurance.
VI. ARTIST SELECTION PANEL
The Artist Selection Panel
in Public Places Policies and Procedures. Serving on the committee are:
Leila Block, Artist
Evan Bombardier, Community Member
Katy Goodman, Arts and Culture Coordinator, Project Manager (non-voting)
Samantha Grace, Community Member
Dan Groussman, Public Art Committee, Arts Commission
Nicole Karn, Parks, Recreation, Trees and Trails Advisory Board
Zhenya Lavy, Historic Preservation Committee
Melanie Muszynski, Public Art Committee, Arts Commission
Christine Walsh Rogers, Public Art Committee, Arts Commission
Joshua Saunders, Public Art Committee, Arts Commission
Shawn Wiles, Parks Crew Chief Apprentice, Project Engineer (non-voting)
VII. PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE:
The following is the preliminary schedule for the project and is subject to change. Changes to the
final installation deadline will be at the mutual agreement of the artist and the City of Port Townsend
and may be subject to change. The ideal completion would be prior to November 1, 2026.
Call to Artists March 31, 2026
Submittal Deadline May 25, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Finalists Chosen June 8, 2026
Finalist Presentations June 23, 2026
Artist Selection by Committee June 29, 2026
Selected Artist Recommended
to Arts Commission July 2, 2026
Selected Artist Recommended
to City Council July 6, 2026
Estimated Project Start July 15, 2026
Estimated Project Completion November, 1, 2026
4
VIII. RUBRIC
Poor Fair Good Very Good Excellent TOTAL
Letter of Interest 1-4 5-8 9-12 13-16 17-20 20
/Application
CV/Experience 1-4 5-8 9-12 13-16 17-20 20
References 1-2 3-4 5-6 7-8 9-10 10
Work Samples 1-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 25
75
Presentation and 1-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 25
Public
Engagement
(Finalists)
100
Letter of Interest/Application Criteria:
Is Letter of Interest relevant, and does it describe a clear concept for the project? Does it
include detailed information on all important points and evidence of a strong plan for
community engagement?
Does it demonstrate a connection to skate culture or the Skate Park community?
Is application package complete and thorough?
CV/Experience Criteria
Does CV/resume show significant evidence of prior work and proof of success?
Does experience align with project goals and objectives?
References Criteria
Do references support information in application and CV?
Are references relevant to the project?
Work Sample Criteria
Are work samples relevant to the project?
Do samples show a high degree of artistic excellence?
Do samples include all requested information as well as high-quality images?
Presentation/Public Engagement
Does project concept as presented align with goals and objectives?
Was presentation thorough and engaging?
Was public reception positive (as measured by collected feedback)?
Did artist answer any questions with relevant details?
IX. DESIGN CRITERIA
This City considers its property a limited public forum. Artwork cannot contain:
Violent images
Sexually graphic images
Religious symbols or desecration of the same
5
Hatred of persons or groups of people
Support for or opposition to a candidate or initiative on the ballot
Advertisement for a good or service for sale
Imagery that may be inappropriate to maintain in or upon public property because it so
objectionable under contemporary community standards that it is reasonably foreseeable to
property.
Designs direction should align with the nature and culture of the Seamus Sims Skatepark as a
vibrant community-driven, multigenerational space for recreation, as well as reflecting Port
The final design should take into consideration ease of maintenance and resistance to vandalism.
A primer coat and anti-graffiti coating will be provided by the City.
X. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CRITERIA
Artist(s) community engagement plan should include multiple opportunities for input and project
development with Skate Park users and other stakeholders. It should take into account timing for
planning, promotion, activities, and feedback as well as the execution of the mural. Engagement
activities will be supported by the City and Creative District in collaboration with the chosen artist(s).
XI. CONTACT INFORMATION
For any questions regarding the project or to schedule a site visit, please contact Katy Goodman,
arts and culture coordinator, at (360) 774-2362 or kgoodman@cityofpt.us. You may also come by
the Artist Resource Help Desk at the Port Townsend Public Library on Thursdays between 12:00-
2:00.
XII. SITE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS
(See Attachments)
6
PTAC
GRANTS
DEBRIEF &
PLANNING
WORKSHOP
APRIL 2026
CURRENT GENERAL
CRITERIA FOR GRANTS:
-DEMONSTRATE ARTISTIC MERIT
-DEMONSTRATE PUBLIC BENEFIT
-SHOW HOW FUNDS
WOULDIMPROVE/ENABLE
PROJECT
-ARE FOR LOCAL AUDIENCE OR
ATTRACTS VISITORS
-ARE ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE
(DO NOT EXCLUDE BASED ON
PROTECTED CLASS OR ABILITY TO
PAY)
PTAC GRANTS 2025 & 2026
(BY DOLLARS)
DateApplications Amount Total of 2025 Total of 2025 % Funded (by Allocation
SubmittedRequestedApplications$ Requests$)
5
March13$48,660 40.63% 49.31% 18.49%$9,000
2
June10$29,150 31.25% 29.54% 31.87% $9,000
September9$17,875 28.13% 18.11% 50.34% $9,000
0
Total32$98,685100.00% 100.00% 100.00% $27,000
2
DateApplications Amount Total of 2026 Total of 2026 % Funded (by Allocation
SubmittedRequestedApplications$ Requests$)
6
March 16$56,680-- -- 23.81% $13,500
2
June ------ -- -- $9,000
September ------ -- -- $7,500
0
Total-- --------$30,000
2
PTAC GRANTS 2025 & 2026
(BY CATEGORY)
CateMusicYouthEventTheatPhotoUnderIndigeLiterarStorytExhibitEducaLGBTQDancVisua
goryrregraphreprenousyellingiontional IA+el Art
5
yysente
d
2
Mar12 311111112
Jun1141112
0
Sept 32631111
Total5 51341211112314
2
CateMusicYouthEventTheatPhotoUnderIndigeLiterarStorytExhibitEducaLGBTQDancVisua
goryregraphreprenousyellingiontional IA+el Art
6
ysente
d
2 Mar3392133
Jun
0
Sept
Total3392133
2
GOALS:
-CLARIFY PRIORITIES AND
PROCESS
-RESPECT APPLICANTS'
AND COMMISSION'S TIME
-LAY FOUNDATION FOR
FUTURE SUCCESS
CONSIDERATIONS BASED
ON PRIOR
DELIBERATIONS:
-NEW TO PTAC?
-YOUTH SERVING?
-UNDERREPRESENTED
SERVING?
-PEOPLE SERVED/"PUBLIC
BENEFIT"
-INDIVIDUAL VS. ORG?
-LTAC FUNDED?
-PARTIAL OR FULL FUNDING?
PTAC'S ROLE: STAFFS' ROLE:
CLARIFY PRIORITIESCLARIFY PROCESS
-WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT -APPLICATION AND REPORTING
CRITERIA?
-CONTRACTS
-WHAT HAS THE MOST
IMPACT?-DISSEMINATING INFORMATION
TO COMMISSION/APPLICANTS
-WHAT CAN PTAC UNIQUELY
OFFER?
What do you think should be PTAC's
top priorities in awarding artist
grants?
1-2-4-ALL
PTAC'S ROLE: STAFFS' ROLE:
RESPECT FOR TIME
RESPECT FOR TIME
-RECEIVING AND REVIEWING -APPLICATION AND REPORTING
INFORMATION
-CONTRACTS
-WHAT IS ASKED OF
-DISSEMINATING INFORMATION
APPLICANTS VS. AWARD VALUE
TO COMMISSION/APPLICANTS
-APPLICANT/AWARDEE SUPPORT
What do you think would be the
best way for PTAC to collect the
information it needs to select
awardees?
1-2-4-ALL
PTAC'S ROLE: STAFFS' ROLE:
FOUNDATION FOR
FOUNDATION FOR
FUTURE SUCCESS
FUTURE SUCCESS
-RESEARCH AND INNOVATION-RECORD KEEPING
-ONBOARDING AND TRAINING
-TIMING AND CONSISTENCY
-PLANNING FOR NEW KINDS -SUPPORT FOR EMERGING
OF ARTIST SUPPORTCOMMISSION PRIORITIES
Do you have ideas for different, new
ways to support artists via grants or
otherwise?
1-2-4-ALL
CONCLUDING
THOUGHTS:
WHAT ARE YOUR
TAKEAWAYS?
WHAT THINGS
THAT WE
DISCUSSED ARE
MOST IMPORTANT
TO YOU?