Newberry CRA Explores Mural Funding

NEWBERRY ‒ During the recent Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board meeting, Newberry Senior Planner Uma Sarmistha unveiled a proposal for a mural program aimed at enhancing the downtown Newberry area. Sarmistha's presentation included slides showcasing several buildings that would serve as ideal canvases for murals, along with artist renderings that provided examples of potential artwork.

Sarmistha detailed a one-to-one grant opportunity and suggested the formation of an art advisory committee. This committee would be responsible for reviewing proposed mural artwork and making recommendations to the CRA Board and City Commission for final approval.

Board members unanimously supported Sarmistha’s proposal and agreed to apply for a one-to-one $5,000 Art Tag Program grant. They also approved the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to attract artists interested in contributing their artwork for the Board’s consideration.

In addition to the mural program, the CRA Board addressed budgetary matters. A resolution was passed to update the CRA Board’s 2023-24 fiscal year budget. The approved changes included adjustments to align with actual revenues received, accommodating a prior employee’s leave balance payout, and transferring funds to the capital improvement fund earmarked for repaving the municipal building parking lot.

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