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Beautification and Public Art Committee MinutesPage 2 of 3 July 21, 2025 --------- Deb advised that two additional Sherburne County Master Gardeners are willing to volunteer their time to help judge. The committee was in favor of judging on a non-meeting night. They were also in favor of a smaller group consisting of Deb, J. Brian, and Josh to judge Jill Varty's property. Josh shared that he had met with Julia Gustafson from Two Rivers Monuments with regard to a personalized garden keepsake. He will gather more information and share relevant details. The committee was comfortable with Josh finalizing details on the personalized garden keepsake over email ahead of the next meeting. 5.2Beautification Award Josh shared that the Beautification Award nomination period is still live, and only one nomination has been received. He also shared that the committee should consider nominating a business. Josh advised that he is still marketing the program and would consider an ad in the Chamber newsletter. J.Brian asked if representatives from the Heritage Preservation board for the water tower would be in attendance at Elk Riverfest. Ryan asked if Thunderstruck Exteriors submitted a nomination. Josh shared that Thunderstruck has not been nominated yet. Mel shared that her mother is an antique dealer at Antiques Downtown and may suggest them to nominate. Chris confirmed that the Heritage Preservation board will be in attendance at Elk Riverfest. 5.3General Updates Josh shared that staff were approached by Wild Botanical Atelier, a local creative studio, proposing an artist-in-residence program as well as requesting a dedicated studio space. Mel and Nic gave context to the former Arts Alliance and Art Soup organizations. J.Brian asked what an artist-in-residence position would look like. Josh advised that it would be up to the committee and board to determine the terms of a potential contract. Josh asked if the committee was in favor of proposing a budget increase for public art from $10,000 to $15,000 to support future initiatives such as a potential public art grant and artist-in-residence program. The committee was in favor of the budget increase request.