Port Richey committee seeks artist bids for waterfront mural, may request funds beyond $2,000 materials allocation

Port Richey committee members said they have begun soliciting bids from local artists for a proposed waterfront mural and that early indications suggest artist fees may exceed the $2,000 council allocation designated for materials.

"We have to have a clear seal afterwards," said Speaker 3, noting artists advised applying a protective finish to preserve the work. Speaker 3 added they had already shared photos and site details with prospective artists and would forward the correct site address to the group after discovering Google Maps showed an incorrect location.

Speaker 5 reminded the group that council previously approved $2,000 for materials and said, "We need to ask for more funds to pay artists" if quotes show the allocation is insufficient. Speaker 4 said a resident has offered to donate funds but did not provide a figure, and the committee agreed to wait for formal quotes before deciding whether to request additional budget from council.

Committee members discussed design direction and audience: options included a timeline of local artistic growth and maritime or underwater imagery intended to draw visitors to the waterfront. Speaker 6 suggested a timeline that would highlight how local talent developed over time and provide educational value for children and visitors.

The committee expects to have more concrete pricing and design proposals by the next meeting and plans to include an update in council comments next Tuesday. No formal motion or council appropriation was made at the committee meeting; members said they would present quotes and request an increase only if necessary.