DEPARTMENT: Public Services and Revenue Administration
FILE TYPE: Regular Information
TITLE
title
Discussion And Direction On Public Art Blueprint Draft Vision, Mission, Guiding Principles, And Opportunities
end
PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Discuss and provide feedback on Public Art Blueprint vision, mission, guiding principles and initial opportunities.
SUMMARY
Dakota County is developing its first Public Art Blueprint to guide how public art is incorporated across County libraries, parks, and facilities. The blueprint will establish a unified vision and goals for public art and address practical considerations, including funding, maintenance, and policy.
The research and community dialogue phases were completed in fall 2025. Key themes identified include:
• Desire for interactive, functional and family-friendly art
• Preference for vibrant and memorable public art
• Interest in nature-connected public art
• Public art as a catalyst for gathering and inclusivity
• Integration into everyday life and infrastructure
• Support for local artists and cultural expression
Based on the research and community dialog findings, the project team has developed a draft vision for public art in Dakota County,
Draft Vision
Public art in Dakota County is where creativity, curiosity, and community thrive together. Art transforms everyday life as it is woven into County services and the public spaces where people live, work, and play, by:
1. Honoring Dakota County's diverse cultures of the past and present
2. Creating spaces where residents gather, interact, and build community through accessible, engaging artworks that foster learning, engagement, and play
3. Highlighting Dakota County's natural environment, ecological systems, landscapes, waterways, and commitment to sustainability
Draft supporting mission statements, guiding principles, and initial opportunities for integrating public art across County services are included in Attachment: Draft Public Art Vision, Mission, Guiding Principles, and Opportunities. The Public Art Advisory Committee reviewed and provided feedback on February 10 and March 10, 2026.
The next phase is development of the draft Public Art Blueprint, including implementation priorities, administrative tools, and funding strategies. The draft Blueprint is anticipated to be presented to the General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole in June 2026.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Information only; no action requested.
end
EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
☒ None ☐ Current budget ☐ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
body
Information only; no action requested.
end
PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
None.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment: Draft Public Art Vision, Mission, Guiding Principles, and Opportunities
Attachment: Presentation Slides
BOARD GOALS
☒ Thriving People ☒ A Healthy Environment with Quality Natural Resources
☒ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☒ Excellence in Public Service
CONTACT
Department Head: Teresa Mitchell
Author: Lil Leatham