Board approves $20,000 toward Old Town Greenwood mural, with conditions

The Johnson County Tourism Board voted to provide $20,000 toward a proposed destination mural in Old Town Greenwood after hearing a presentation from Old Town Greenwood, Inc.

Megan Yegge, president of Old Town Greenwood, described a mural concept titled “Guardians of the Gate” by artist JD Bills that includes three photo‑op 3‑D elements, functional lantern lighting and a plan to drive foot traffic into downtown businesses. “His work is highly recognizable … we feel that his local rep, recognition up in Indianapolis would give the project built‑in reach and visibility, helping draw visitors south from Marion County into Johnson County,” Yegge said.

The project team presented a full estimate of roughly $32,000: about $20,000 for the artist/painting and approximately $6,000–12,000 for interactive 3‑D elements and lighting. Presenters said the organization plans a ‘Drink and Dine for Design’ mural crawl and corporate sponsorships to fund the balance and that they could raise roughly half the amount if necessary.

Board members discussed options to reduce costs, including phasing lighting into later stages or relying on volunteer labor from a local leadership program to help paint and reduce installation expenses. The board moved to provide $20,000 on the condition that the cat‑antler and wolf‑tail 3‑D elements remain part of the final installation; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Presenters and board staff agreed to coordinate next steps, including confirming installation logistics, resolving electrical hookups (which were not included in the quoted price), and documenting the fundraising plan. Staff noted the board could choose to fund more or less of the project in future meetings depending on fundraising progress.

Next steps: Old Town Greenwood will continue fundraising and report back to the board on sponsorship commitments and any required permitting or electrical work.