* Warning: This is an unofficial, introductory copy of the bill.
The official copy considered by the City Council is the first reader copy.
Introductory*
City of Baltimore
Council Bill R
(Resolution)
Introduced by: Councilmember Middleton
A Resolution Entitled
A Council Resolution concerning
title
Request for State Action - Expanding the State Public Art Mandate
For the purpose of calling upon the General Assembly to pass and the Governor to sign legislation that expands the current public arts mandate requirement to require public art in any building that receives at least 50% of its construction funds from the State; and requiring local input when local governments, like Baltimore, also assist in providing construction funds.
body
Recitals
Presently, State law provides that buildings fully-financed by the State of Maryland must have public art. SB12 would broaden this mandate to include even buildings only partially financed by the State. Broadening the public art mandate would require that public art be installed in a more diverse array of local facilities, including community centers and community colleges.
While SB12 is an important step in the right direction, the bill should be amended to require local input regarding public art in instances when the State and local jurisdictions, like Baltimore, jointly fund a construction project. This would ensure that the public art aligns with community interests and culture.
When done correctly, public art has the opportunity to engage and define a community’s history and culture. Thus, any expansion of public art funding and placement should be welcomed and supported.
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of Baltimore, That the Council calling upon the General Assembly to pass and the Governor to sign legislation that expands the current public arts mandate requirement to require public art in any building that receives at least 50% of its construction funds from the State; and requiring local input when local governments, like Baltimore, also assist in providing construction funds.
And be it further resolved, That a copy of this Resolution be sent to the Governor, the
Honorable Chairs and Members of the Baltimore City House and Senate Delegations to the
Maryland General Assembly, the President of the Maryland Senate, the Maryland House
Speaker, the Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo), the Mayor, and the Mayor’s Legislative Liaison to the City Council.