===== PDF PAGE 9 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] CITY OF WEST CHICAGO CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY ITEM TITLE: AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 4.b. Commission 2026 Initiatives & COMMISSION AGENDA DATE: September 4, 2025Budget Request STAFF REVIEW: Kelley Chrisse, AICP, SIGNATURE __________________________ CEcD ITEM SUMMARY: As part of the annual work planning process, staff has prepared a set of proposed initiatives for the Cultural Arts Commission to undertake in 2026. These initiatives reflect ongoing Commission pro- grams, recommendations from the Economic Development Work Plan (EDWP), and new opportuni- ties for supporting and expanding West Chicago’s cultural landscape. All initiatives have been reviewed against the Commission’s proposed ordinance update to ensure alignment with the purpose and functions of the Commission. Proposed 2026 Initiatives: 1. Assign Commissioner Liaisons to serve as a point of contact with one or more community partners, such as schools, People Made Visible, Mexican Cultural Center, regional arts non- profits, and regional cultural organizations. Commissioners will attend partner meetings or events periodically, share information on City and Commission arts initiatives, and report back opportunities, needs, and ideas for collaboration. 2. Develop and maintain a resource list of artists (muralists, painters, sculptors, musicians, danc- ers, etc.) available for projects, events, and public art opportunities. a) Commission a local or regional artist to transform the fountain basin into a vibrant cul- tural landmark to be unveiled for Blooming Fest. b) Support the recruitment of artists for the WeGo Full Steam Ahead Public Art installation by identifying artists for participation. 3. Create an inventory of City-owned properties suitable for future art installations and/or murals. 4. Support the development of a walking tour of history, culture, and art in coordination with the City Museum, West Chicago Historical Society, and Gallery 200, as applicable. 5. Select one special event in 2026 to support through coordination of live art, music, and/or artisan vendors. 6. Explore ways to add music, dance, and other performances downtown outside of signature events. 7. Coordinate the 2026 Art Banner Exhibit. 8. Provide continued support for the Gallery 200 Artist-In-Residence Program. 9. Continue the commission’s sponsorship of the Arteculture exhibit at Gallery 200. 10. Conduct a Public Art Inventory and provide maintenance for at least one piece of public art. As proposed and due to low participation, staff would recommend discussion on discontinuing the Loteria activity in favor of initiatives with broader engagement. ===== PDF PAGE 10 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] The Commission is asked to review and discuss these proposed initiatives for 2026. Feedback on priorities, scope, and any additional opportunities will guide staff in preparing the final work plan and associated budget request for the year ahead. ACTIONS PROPOSED: Review and discuss proposed initiatives and request associated budget for 2026. Attachments: Draft 2026 Budget Request ===== PDF PAGE 11 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Cultural Arts Commission 2026 Budget Request 2026 Art Banner Exhibit - $2,500 Funds will be used for the production of 26 street pole banners (30”x60”) at a total cost of $2,340 ($90 per print). Additional funds are included for potential reprints as needed. Summer Art Series: WeGo Full Steam Ahead 2026 - $5,000 Funds will support the City’s sponsorship of the WeGo Full Steam Ahead public art installation that will be displayed within downtown West Chicago. This installation is a collaborative effort proposed by the West Chicago Parks Foundation, West Chicago Public Library District, People Made Visible, and West Chicago Museum. Public Art Signage & Maintenance - $500 Funds will be allocated for materials to apply a sacrificial coat to the mural "Alebrijes: Creatures of a Dream World" to protect it from graffiti, as well as to produce new signs for City-commissioned public art. Gallery 200: Artist-In-Residence Program Contribution - $500 These funds will support a partnership with People Made Visible for the artist-in-residence program at Gallery 200. Arteculture Sponsorship - $200 This allocation will go toward the City’s sponsorship of the annual Arteculture event held at Gallery 200 (200 Main Street) in May, primarily for purchasing refreshments for a reception hosted by the Cultural Arts Commission. 2026 Fountain Basin Painting - $350 Commission a local or regional artist to transform the fountain basin into a vibrant cultural landmark. This project is intended to be annual with the completion to coincide with Blooming Fest in the spring. Potential to Eliminate: 2026 Loteria - $950 This allocation covers the following expenses: printing 46 window decals (16”x22”) at a total of $736 ($16 per print), purchasing two $25 gift cards for artists to create four new pieces, $100 for participant giveaways, and $35 for mailing costs.