Tourism advisory committee approves $6,800 for track project and $10,000 for alley beautification

The Tourism Advisory Committee voted to award $6,800 to a track/public‑art project and $10,000 to an alley‑beautification proposal, approving the two grants by voice vote after discussion of eligibility and conditions. Committee members said the awards reflect the committee’s priorities for visible, shovel‑ready work and events that drive visitation.

Committee discussion centered on applicant readiness and property control. Staff listed applicants and requested amounts, including the Oregon Coast Classic and an indigenous gathering; a committee member proposed granting $1,000 to the indigenous gathering and allocating the remaining event funds to the Oregon Coast Classic before members moved on to the arts and beautification agenda. Members raised missing supporting documents for some applications and asked staff to request additional materials where needed.

The Gilbert Building mural application drew concern because the property is listed for sale. Several members urged a preservation condition—a ‘‘ghost clause’’—or use of removable panels so the artwork would survive a change in ownership. Committee members said they were unwilling to fund a permanent mural on a building with uncertain ownership status without a contractual preservation term; they asked staff to return with a plan and any owner approvals before any award to that project.

A motion to approve the smaller, ready projects was made and seconded; the committee approved $6,800 for the track project and $10,000 for alley beautification by voice vote. The committee directed staff to follow up with applicants for missing documentation and to seek owner authorization or preservation assurances for the Gilbert Building proposal before any funding decision.

Next steps: staff will notify award recipients and request the additional documentation discussed; the committee retained discretion over the Gilbert Building mural pending receipt of a preservation agreement or other assurances.