County considers new arts board

"The county commissioners currently are considering an ordinance designed to boost the arts and beautify future capital projects in Kitsap.The commissioners could approve the ordinance, which would earmark $130,000 a year for arts projects developed in coordination with county capital improvement construction, as soon as June 11. The ordinance would add 1 percent of total costs to capital improvement projects, according to county Administrator Malcolm Fleming.Public buildings should be a reflection of our culture and community, said Commissioner Chris Endresen. This has been something I've wanted to do for a long time.The ordinance also would allow the commissioners to appoint a nine-member volunteer Arts Board. The board would create standards for selection of works of art to be placed in county structures. It also would seek private donations to add to county funds for the program.Endresen said works of art intended for county structures would have to meet community standards set by the volunteer board. Capital improvement art projects could include sculptures or murals.Find out moreA summary of the county's proposed arts ordinance is posted at www.wa.gov/kitsap. Public comment on the ordinance will be accepted this week, and the measure also will be discussed at the next commissioners meeting, set for 10 a.m. Monday, June 11, at the courthouse in Port Orchard. "

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