Soledad approves Front Street mural project, aims to prioritize local artists

The Soledad City Council voted to fund and begin a Front Street mural project, authorizing a professional‑services agreement with the Arts Council for Monterey County not to exceed $70,400.

Economic development staff said the phase‑1 work will include murals on the downtown restroom container, a storage unit and the gateway wall. Karen Lee Garcia of the Arts Council described the program’s goals: "to improve the quality of life for everyone in our region through the arts" and to engage local artists in public‑art installations that reflect the community’s cultural history.

Councilmembers urged staff to prioritize local and South County artists and to gather quick community input — for example, a short online survey — because the project will use ARPA funds and must meet expenditure timelines. Several councilmembers suggested themes for murals, including Pinnacles National Park, the region’s agriculture and bird‑watching (California condors) and the city’s brand elements.

Staff also recommended consideration of an ad‑hoc arts committee to guide future public‑art decisions; Mayor Velasquez suggested seeking additional grant opportunities (for example, Union Pacific railroad community grants) to expand work beyond the immediate ARPA‑funded phase.

The resolution passed by roll call; staff will coordinate artist recruitment with the Arts Council and return with selections and community‑input results.