Mayor And Art Commission Seek Common Ground

Can the Public Arts Commission and the Mayor's Office share responsibility for public art?

The Berkshire Eagle reports that was the question Tuesday night as the Public Arts Commission and General Government Committee looked for common ground on a proposed ordinance revision that would rescind the commission's decision-making authority and grant it to the mayor's office.

The proposal, submitted by Mayor Thomas Bernard earlier this month, has sparked an outcry from the Public Arts Commission and fear that placing the authority over public art in a single office could lead to censorship.

The issue continues to be vetted by the City Council, which has the final say on ordinance changes.

The General Government Committee is expected to meet again to discuss the finer details of the proposal and make a final recommendation to the full City Council.