Consideration of Street Murals Policy and Hills and Dales' Right-of-Way Request Copyrighted
May 4, 2026
City of Dubuque ACTION ITEMS # 4.
City Council
ITEM TITLE: Consideration of Street Murals Policy and Hills and Dales'
Right-of-Way Request
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending City Council authorize the Hills
and Dales mural project to proceed under an interim
administrative approval process, subject to the policy
considerations and further direct staff to draft and return with
proposed amendments to City Code establishing a formal
policy and review process for street murals within the public
right-of-way.
SUGGUESTED Receive and File; Approve
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MVM Memo - Consideration of Street Murals Policy and Hills and Dales' Right-of-
Way Request
2. 2026-05-04 Consideration of Street Murals Policy and Hills and Dales' Right-of-
Way Request MEMO
3. BSNA Minutes 2-19-26
4. Hills & Dales Mobility Street Mural RFQ
5. Mayor CC letter - Hills Dales Mural - HPC 02-19-2026[72]
6. Minutes HPC 02-19-2026 Approved
7. Mobility Mural Informational Flyer
8. 2026-03-27 Hills & Dales Email -- Work completed
Page 561 of 668
Dubuque
THE CITY OF �
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TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Consideration of Street Murals Policy and Hills and Dales' Right-of-Way
Request
DATE: April 27, 2026
City Engineer Gus Psihoyos is recommending City Council authorize the Hills and Dales
mural project to proceed under an interim administrative approval process, subject to
the policy considerations. Staff further recommends that City Council direct staff to draft
and return with proposed amendments to City Code establishing a formal policy and
review process for street murals within the public right-of-way.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
�
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:sv
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer
Justine Hull, Civil Engineer - Traffic
Wally Wernimont, Planning Director
Chris Happ-Olson, Assistant Planner
Arielle Swift, Public Works Director
Jill Connors, Economic Development Director
Bonnie Spurling, Arts & Cultural Affairs Manager
Randy Gehl, Communications Director
Ryan Knuckey, Transportation Director
Dave Ness, Civil Engineer III - Traffic
Page 562 of 668
Dubuque
THE CITY OF �
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DuB E ;�� M.;
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Maste iece on the Mississi 1 zoo���oiz-zois
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TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer
SUBJECT: Consideration of Street Murals Policy and Hills and Dales' Right-of-Way
Request
DATE: April 23, 2026
INTRODUCTION
The purpose for this memo is to seek City Council direction on establishing a policy
framework for the placement of street murals within the public right-of-way (ROW). This
policy would guide future requests and eliminate the need for individual project
approvals by Council.
BACKGROUND
A request has been initiated by Hills and Dales to install a painted street mural at 4t"
Street between Bluff Street and the Fenelon Elevator. As similar placemaking efforts
continue to emerge, there is a need to define a consistent approach for evaluating and
approving such installation within the City ROW.
DISCUSSION
Proposed Policy Considerations:
Staff recommends that Council consider a policy framework that includes the following
parameters:
• Location Criteria:
Murals may be permitted only in low-volume traffic areas, such as local
residential streets, cul-de-sacs, or parking lots, where impacts to traffic
operations and safety are minimal.
• Design Review and Approval:
Final mural designs shall be reviewed by a staff committee consisting of
Engineering, Planning, Transportation (Parking), Parks, Economic Development,
Communications and Public Works to ensure the installation does not create
safety hazards or conflicts with traffic control devices, visibility, accessibility or
other concerns. Once reviewed by staff, a recommendation will be sent to the
City Manager or other designee for approval.
• Community Engagement:
Applicants should demonstrate neighborhood support and coordination with
relevant stakeholders prior to approval.
Page 563 of 668
• Coordination with Existing Processes:
Projects may require review or coordination with boards or commissions, such as
the Historic Preservation Commission, depending on location.
• Maintenance Responsibility:
The City shall not assume responsibility for maintenance, repair, or replacement
of the mural. These responsibilities shall remain with the requesting organization
or sponsoring entity. A formal agreement or contract shall be required, outlining
the duration of the mural, maintenance expectations, and responsibilities for
repair or removal at the end of its lifecycle, and shall be executed with the City
prior to installation.
• Liability and Insurance:
The requesting entity shall provide appropriate liability coverage and agree to
indemnify the City as part of the approval process.
Based on this proposed policy considerations, the current request with Hills and Dales
has gone through a majority of these items to consider this artwork in the ROW. Our
next steps would be getting final design approval and a maintenance responsibility
contract.
Attached are the current requests supporting documents like the Historic Preservations
Commissions vote on this proposed artwork, Hills and Dale's Request for Qualification
for an artist to complete the work , and the neighborhood support in the area for the
continuation of the project.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that City Council authorize the Hills and Dales mural project to
proceed under an interim administrative approval process, subject to the policy
considerations outlined above. Staff further recommends that City Council direct staff to
draft and return with proposed amendments to City Code establishing a formal policy
and review process for street murals within the public right-of-way.
Prepared by Justine Hull, Civil Engineer-Traffic
Cc: Wally Wernimont, Planning Director
Chris Happ-Olson, Assistant Planner
Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Arielle Swift, Public Works Director
Jill Connors, Economic Development Director
Bonnie Spruling, Arts & Cultural Affairs Manager
Randy Gehl, Communications Director
Ryan Knuckey, Transportation Director
Dave Ness, Civil Engineer III -Traffic
2
Page 564 of 668
Dear neighbors,
GREAT to see so many of you at our meeting Thursday night. Thanks for coming! Lots to
report.
Gary Stoppelman updated us on the rebirth of the Dubuque Museum of Art. Starting on
March 9th and lasting 2 to 3 weeks, theywill sink a ton of columns 20'deep to support the
new buildings. The columns are called geopiers (pronounced GEE-oh-peers), and they are
inserted into soft, loose, or compressible soils to support structures. Vibration monitors
are on site, so while nearby neighbors will hear and feel the work, it shouldn't rattle things
too much. Geopiers also support the adjacent childcare center. If you have an urgent
concern, callConlon's main number, listed on allthesigns aroundtheworksite.
Branching Out is the free tree program of the City of Dubuque. You can qualifyfor a tree
based on your location oryour income. Street trees break up the heat island effect, reduce
pollution, beautify neighborhoods, and never askfor raises orvacations. Theyjust love the
work. Applyfora tree now, atthat link, and you can have it installed bythe end oftheyear.
There's also a need forfolks who wantto volunteerto planttrees.
Officer Lembke was not ableto be with us last night. So everybody behave untilwe can get
a police report from him next month.
Mark Murphy is the Environmental Sanitarian/Emergency Preparedness Plannerforthe
city of Dubuque. He renewed his offer of an emergency preparedness presentation. We will
take him up on that in the next couple of months. He'll also discuss how to dealwith
neighbors who leave trash out, don't pick up after their pets (even if they pretend to—THAT
was a story!), and generallycreate problems forthe neighborhood.
Eric Whitfield, owner of Bluff Street Books, reported that he hopes to open his store in
May. We bibliophiles can hardlywait! Itwill be at the corner of 4th and Bluff.
Our neighbors from Hills& Dales joined us. It was good to meet Julia, Kelly, Caleb, Kerry,
Levi, Stacey, Deanne, and Jack, the CEO. (I hope I caught everyone's names.)They are
working on creating a street muralfor4th Street between Bluff and the Fenelon elevator.
Collaboratingwith muralists,the arts commission,the historicalpreservation commission,
and cityengineering, they hopeto installthe mural in May. Meeting attendees gavethem an
enthusiastic and unanimous endorsementforthe project. (Itwill lookgreat from the
elevator!) One of the best things about last night's meeting was that Gary, from the
museum, was there and offered the museum's and his support, even proposing an
Page 565 of 668
introduction to an artistwho could helpwith the project. Synergy like this is a delightto see
take shape.
Author David Gamble joined us last night and conveyed to us a marvelous vision of
Dubuque's future. He is a Lecturer in the Department of Urban Planning and Design atthe
Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. He's workingwith DBQ Forward on a
stunningand morefunctionalandappealingvisionofthedowntownarea. Thecitywillhave
a new master plan nextyear. The Butler College of Osteopathic Medicine and the new
Museum —and an active neighborhood association —givethe Bluff Street area a lotto build
on. We can be where Dubuque's downtown begins its transformation. Mr. Gamble's books
are Rebuildin�the American City and Rebuildin�the AmericanTown, amongothers. He laid
out a large map of the downtown area, showing underutilized areas, impediments to
usefulness—and the lack of inviting green spaces and trees. He also showed whatwas
working, highlightedthebeautifuloldarchitecture (includingtheCathedral), and howthey
could all be drawn together into something more coherent. It was enthralling. Our meeting
wentwelloverourusual60 minutes becausewewere alltransfixed bywhatcould be.
If you are new to Dubuque, or have a friend who is, the next City Life course starts soon. It's
a terrific way of getting to know your new hometown, meeting governmental and city
department leadership, and other new residents. I will send outthe updated brochurewith
the dates and sign-up deadlines. Also—theyfeed you! So you getto know local restaurants
as well.
If you look closely, buds are alreadyforming on some bushes and trees. We had a taste of
the Springto come, butwe're right back into Winter now. Next month's meeting is March
19, the day before the Spring Equinox on March 20. We wish you a good Equinox, Lent, or
Ramadan, howeveryou observethis time ofyear. Welcometo a time of planting seeds,
hearing water flow again, anticipating the return of migrating or hibernating critters, and
creating times of food and fellowship together as we emerge from our dens. We have such
good workto do every year, and good companywith whom to do it. Let's look after one
another—ourchildren, elders, newcomers andvisitors —and makethe BluffStreet
neighborhood home for each other.
Best regards,
John McAndrew
BSNA Secretary
Page 566 of 668
Please check out and share our Facebook pa�e
The Goal of the 8(uffStreet NeighborhoodAssociation: To bui(d community,support
present and future businesses, residents, and visitors, and enhance the beautyand safety
of the neighborhood on and around 8(uff Street.
Bluff Street Neighborhood Association
r
Page 567 of 668
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
Artist Payment: Design stipend of$500 paid to up to 3 short-listed artists, $5,000 paid to
selected final artist with 50% paid upon signing contract and 50% paid upon project completion.
All materials and supplies are provided separately; the artist is responsible for their own travel
and lodging. Artists must supply a W-9 and not otherwise be barred from doing business with a
Medicaid-funded entity.
Eligibility: Artists or Artist Teams residing in the United States
DEADLINE: 11:59 PM CST, March 22, 2026
Introduction
Hills & Dales seeks to commission an artist to design and oversee the community installation of
a temporary, inclusive, mobility-themed community streetway mural in Dubuque, lowa in May of
2026. The mural will be installed on 4th Street, a dead-end roadway in front of the city's historic
Fenelon Place Elevator. A large portion of the installation will happen at a community painting
day for people of all abilities on May 16, 2026 (rain date likely on June 13, 2026). The mural will
be painted on the roadway, rather than a traditional vertical wall, to allow for the inclusive
participation of artists, no matter their mobility. The proposed section of roadway measures
approximately 2000 sq ft, but designs do not need to cover the entire available area. A portion
of this space may need to be sectioned off and go unused to ensure vehicle access for local
neighbors.
This commission opportunity is a two-phase design process, beginning with a Request for
Qualifications (RFQ) that will expand to an invitation and stipend-based Request for Proposal
(RFP)for up to three selected finalists.
About Hills & Dales
Founded in 1973 due to a mother's love for her son, Hills & Dales is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit
human services organization that provides services to children and adults with disabilities, from
26 counties throughout lowa.
The organization values a quality of life that enhances dignity, upholds rights and encourages
choices. Hills & Dales maintains a focus on developing a culture of acceptance where we as a
community should appreciate and value others no matter their ability.
Hills & Dales services:
. Residential services with 24-hour nursing care
• Home & Community-based services
• Residential-Based Supported Community Living
Page 568 of 668
• Supported Employment
• Autism programs and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy
• Inclusive Childcare Center and Childcare Medical Services
• Developmental & Behavioral Health Clinic
• LifeTime Program
Hills & Dales values —We Are:
• Advocates
. Accountable
• Collaborators
• Genuine
• Resourceful
Visit www.hillsdales.orq to learn more about services and those supported by Hills & Dales.
Important Goals and Considerations
This is a unique project that stems from Hills & Dales' vision to increase accessibility for
individuals with various mobility needs in the Dubuque area and to not only appreciate art, but
actively participate in the creation of the mural. Important goals and considerations for the
project:
- Create an inclusive, mobility-created streetway mural on 4th Street
- Create a colorful and bold design that fits visually into Dubuque's extensive collection
of other public artworks
- Create a design that people with various mobility needs can, at least in part,
actively participate in creating at our community painting event. We are very open
to how this might look, but imagine it could include sections of the design
featuring marks made using a wheelchair, walker, cane, stamp, etc. Hills 8� Dales
is open to adjusting the project budget to include adaptive supplies or materials
based on the chosen proposal. Below are some links to help artists understand
and imagine what might be possible:
- https://zotartz.com/
- https://techowlpa.orq/doqs-paqe/adaptive-art/
- Create a design that can be, at least in part, painted at a community painting event. This
will likely mean a design with somewhat simple, solid shapes and forms that can be
outlined in a paint-by-number style and filled in by community members. We hope to
collaborate with the chosen artist to plan the specifics of this event based around their
design, but currently imagine:
- An all-day event on Saturday, May 16, 2026
Page 569 of 668
- A hired team of local artists to aid the selected artist in outlining the design in the
days before the event, managing volunteers during the event, and finishing
painting details and touch-ups in the days following the event
- About 100 volunteer participants, including Hills & Dales clients in addition to the
broader Dubuque community. Volunteers will pre-register for 20-30 minute
painting slots, followed by breaks for the lead artists to reset between groups.
- City collaboration to manage parking and roadway barriers for safety.
- A block party-style celebration happening alongside the painting, including food
trucks and vendors, music, etc.
- Hills & Dales to provide all project supplies and materials.
- The artwork itself should not focus on disability rights or be an overt statement about
disability inclusion.
- The selected artist must be available to install in the Dubuque area May 14-19, 2026.
- The selected artist must be a very strong communicator and willing to collaborate closely
with a variety of local partners.
- Hills & Dales staff are available to consult on the projecYs accessibility needs throughout
the project's planning and implementation.
- While we expect this mural to hold up better than many roadway murals due to the
street's very low traffic volume, this installation will be temporary. We have committed to
either a) professionally removing the mural or b) installing a new mural design by May of
2027. Extensive information on roadway murals is available here:
- https://asphaltart.bloomberq.orq/quide/
Timeline
- March 4, 2026: RFQ launches
- Midnight, March 22, 2026: RFQ applications due
- March 25, 2026: Up to three shortlisted artists are identified (each granted $500)
- April 12, 2026: Proposed designs from shortlisted artists are due
- April 15, 2026: Selected Artists chosen; Artist contracts developed.
- May 14-19, 2026: Artwork is installed, with public event on May 16
Location
The roadway mural will be installed near the intersection of historic 4th St. and Bluff St. in
Dubuque, IA and within the Cathedral Historic Preservation District. Please note that the design
does not need to cover the entire proposed area. The mural will be placed near the iconic
Fenelon Place Elevator and will be highly visible from the top of the bluff.
About the Fenelon Place Elevator:
The Fenelon Place Elevator (also known as the 4th Street Elevator) is a narrow-gauge funicular
railway located in Dubuque, lowa. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in
1978, and may be the steepest and shortest railway in the US and possibly the world.
Page 570 of 668
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Application Details
This project is open to artists residing in the United States. We encourage applicants at various
stages in their careers and applicants that practice a variety of artistic disciplines. The applicant
may be an individual or team of artists, but should note that the project stipend will not change if
a team is selected.
Using the Google Form below, applicants should submit:
1. 5-10 digital images of past work (Examples of past work should represent your
experience, style, and ability as it relates to this project. Name your submitted digital files
according to the following format: FirstLast_01.jpg, FirstLast_02.jpg, etc... Digital files
should be in .jpg, .png, or .pdf format and not exceed 1 MB per image.)
2. Resume or CV
3. Statement of interest (No longer than 2,000 characters, should specifically outline why
this project interests you and why you think that you would be a good fit.)
From these applications, the selection panel will choose up to three finalists who will be invited
to create site-specific proposals and be interviewed in person or virtually. Artists will be paid an
honorarium for this work. The selected artist or artist team will work with Hills & Dales when
finalizing their designs for installation.
Page 571 of 668
Project Selection Panel and Selection Process
The selection panel will be tasked with reviewing all submissions and selecting both the short-
listed and final artists. This panel is made up of local stakeholders, including employees and
clients of Hills & Dales, local arts non-profit professionals and artists, and city officials.
The selection committee reserves the right to request additional information from the proposers.
Such information could include clarification of the information requested in the original proposal.
The selection committee may take all actions deemed necessary to investigate the qualifications
of each proposer. The selection committee reserves the right to qualify or disqualify proposers
because of lack of similar project experience and/or any other information obtained from its
investigation.
The selection committee reserves the right to reject all proposals. The selection committee
reserves the right to waive technical defects in the proposals and to accept the proposal which,
in the judgment of the selection committee, best serves the project goals. Organizers also
reserve the right to terminate or re-advertise the RFQ at any point. The decision of the Selection
Panel is final.
Application Delivery and Deadline
Submissions must be received by March 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM CST. Incomplete and/or late
applications will not be accepted. Applications must be submitted via Google Forms. Emailed,
faxed or mailed applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure the
application package is complete and submitted by the posted deadline.
Questions and requests for clarification may be emailed to Lyric Morris-Latchaw at
Ivric(a�studiolvric.com until March 18. Please allow up to 48 business hours to receive responses
to these questions. Applicants who need accommodation or support applying for this opportunity
are encouraged to contact Lyric at least 7 business days before the application deadline to allow
us to appropriately accommodate your needs and to discuss alternate formats for submitting
your application.
***Art installation/event dates are subject to change.
Page 572 of 668
Dubuque Planning Services Department
THE CI"TY OF � City Hall-50 West 13"�Street
uF�'�p�'h Dubuque,IA 52001-4845
D�L � ������ (563)589-4210 phone
(563)589-4221 fax
Masterpiece on the Mississippi �.Zol� plannin�tyofdubuque.org
March 6, 2026
Mayor and City Council
City of Dubuque
50 W. 13t" Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
Honorable Mayor Cavanagh and City Council Members,
On February 19, 2026 at the Historic Preservation Commission's (HPC) regularly scheduled
meeting, the Commission heard a proposal from Hill & Dales. The organization reached out
to Planning Staff following discussion with our Engineering Department about the possibility
of painting a mural on the West 4th Street surface between Bluff Street and the Fenelon
Place elevator, in the locally designated Cathedral Historic District. As this project is in the
Public Right of Way (PROW), the request came before the Commission for advisory review.
In most cases, the Commission's advisory review for a project in the PROW would come
into play when the City is undertaking a project, but in this case, the City is considering
providing permission to Hills & Dales to take on this project on City property.
After hearing a presentation from Planning staff and Hills & Dales representatives, the
Commission found that this mural request does not impact visibility of historic resources in
the district, it is not being applied to a historic surFace or resource and is planned as a
temporary installation with a plan for removal after one year. It will not permanently affect or
damage any historic resources.
The Commission agreed with staff's recommendation that it meets the Architectural
Guidelines under the "Public Art" section. With a vote of 8-0 in favor, the Commission
recommends to the City Council approval of this project as it meets those guidelines.
Sincerely,
��
��'��C� ���
J�anice Esser, HPC Chair
cc: Wally Wernimont, Planning Services Director
Chris Happ Olson, Assistant Planner
Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer
Justine Hull, Traffic Engineer
Service People Integrity Responsibility Innovation
Page 573 of 668
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THE CITY OF
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DUB E ;.i.���,
2007�2012�2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi zoi�*zoi9
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
5:30 p.m.
Thursday, February 19, 2026
City Council Chambers, Historic Federal Building
Commissioners Present: Chairperson Janice Esser; Commissioners, Bill Doyle, Tim
Gau, Heidi Pettitt, Rick Stuter, Adam Schwendinger, Christy Monk, Chad Witthoeft
Commissioners Excused: None
Commissioners Unexcused: None
Staff Members Present: Wally Wernimont, Chris Happ Olson
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Janice Esser at
5:30 p.m.
MINUTES: Motion by Witthoeft, seconded by Pettitt, to approve the minutes of January
15, 2026, meeting as submitted. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Janice
Esser, Bill Doyle, Tim Gau, Heidi Pettitt, Rick Stuter, Chad Witthoeft, Adam
Schwendinger, Christy Monk; Nay — none.
ACTION ITEMS:
ADVISORY REVIEW
Location: 4t"Street between Bluff Street and the Fenelon Place elevator
Applicant: Hills & Dales, 1101 Davis St.
Owner: located on a City of Dubuque street
Project: Temporary mural on street surFace in the public right of way
District: Cathedral Historic District
Staff inember Happ Olson introduced the project. Hills & Dales seeks to paint a mural
on the West 4t" Street surface between Bluff Street and the Fenelon Place elevator, in
the locally designated Cathedral Historic District. As this project is in the Public Right of
Way (PROW), the organization brings the request to the Historic Preservation
Commission for advisory review.
She described that Hills & Dales reached out to Planning Staff following discussion with
our Engineering Department about the possibility of painting a mural on the West 4tn
Page 574 of 668
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
January 15, 2026 Page 2
Street surface between Bluff Street and the Fenelon Place elevator. The project is
described in an enclosed brochure, proposed for the PROW along 4th Street. The PROW
is a piece of land, including streets, sidewalks, alleys, and utility corridors, over which
the public has a legal right of passage or use.
Happ Olson presented imagery from the staff report for the location and surrounds to
give context. She stated that in most cases, the Commission's advisory review for a
project in the Public Right of Way would come into play when the City is undertaking a
project, but in this case, the City is considering providing permission to Hills & Dales to
take on this project. The Commission should review the project and make a
recommendation to City Council for consideration.
She stated that the mural request does not impact visibility of historic resources in the
district, it is not being applied to a historic surface or resource and is planned as a
temporary installation with a plan for removal after one year. It will not permanently
affect or damage any historic resources.
She then referred to the architectural guideline analysis, which only related to the public
art section. She stated that the project meets the recommendations in those guidelines.
Happ Olson stated that her report was complete and reminded the Commission that
they should evaluate the project and will be making a recommendation directly to City
Council. She referred to the applicant.
Jack Mescher, CEO of Hills & Dales, spoke at the podium. He described the
organization, their mission and role in the community, and described the mural project
as one that anyone, even someone using a wheelchair, can participate in. He stated
they are currently seeking an artist to lead the project and have a local coordinator that
is versed in murals and community engagement. He stated that it would be a project
which welcomes the community to be involved in, in addition to the Hills and Dales
community.
Commissioners led questions and comments for the applicant.
• Schwendinger ask if there is going to be any signage describing the mural, and
the applicant replied that issue had yet had not been determined, and they would
take the idea into consideration.
• Doyle stated his belief that this is the kind of project the Commission would like to
encourage, which was generally agreed upon by the Commission.
• Witthoeft expressed his desire that when it is removed, the organization research
an environmentally neutral approach to doing so.
Motion by Schwendinger, seconded by Witthoeft, to provide findings to City Council that
the planned project follows the City's Architectural Guidelines for public art. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Janice Esser, Bill Doyle, Tim Gau, Heidi Pettitt,
Rick Stuter, Chad Witthoeft, Adam Schwendinger, Christy Monk; Nay — none.
Page 575 of 668
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
January 15, 2026 Page 3
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC: None
ITEMS FROM COMMISSION:
• Commissioner Adam Schwendinger asked about the state of enforcement on the
property on Highland Terrace that switched out curved windows with
replacement windows. Staff member Happ Olson noted explained the
enforcement after notification and that the owner had been issued a violation.
She said there is a plan to follow up, as there has been no action on the owner's
part as of yet.
• Commissioner Heidi Pettitt invited the Commission to attend the Dubuque Area
History Expo on Sunday Oct. 18 from 1-3 pm at the NICC Peosta Campus. The
event is free to the public and the Commission has supported it in the past with
refreshments and content.
ITEMS FROM STAFF:
• Awards 2026 Update
Staff inember Happ Olson provided an overview of the partnership with Dubuque Main
Street and the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Awards, on Tuesday May 19 at
the Carnegie Stout Public Library.
Happ Olson also updated the Commission on the Encyclopedia Dubuque Legacy Plan,
that the Steering Committee will meet for the first time next month, and its relationship to
the awards being located at the library.
• Unified Development Code (UDC) update
Staff inember Wernimont talked about the UDC update process, and stated more will be
brought back regarding the Historic Preservation chapter at a later meeting.
• 2026 Historic Preservation Commission Workplan update
Happ Olson noted that the 2026 workplan was passed at City Council and the report
received by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
Commissioner Witthoeft left the meeting at 6:32 pm.
• Request for Qualifications for Eagle Point Park Fundraising Consultant update
Happ Olson described that our committee for advancing the fundraising campaign for
the Eagle Point Park Caldwell Buildings is in the process of identifying a fundraising
partner.
Page 576 of 668
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
January 15, 2026 Page 4
• Programmatic Agreement with State update
Happ Olson informed the Commission that the Programmatic Agreement with the SHPO
is now in place.
• Outreach to the lowa Tribe of Kansas & Nebraska (loway people)
Happ Olson referred to the packet memo on this subject and gave the Commission an
update about the work our community partnership has made in making connections with
the loway people and lowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska government. She let
Commissioners know that on February 28th one of the loway citizens, Rubina Martini,
will participate in a free panel in the series Indigenous Voices at the Dubuque Museum
of Art.
• Outdoor Community Space, Historic Millwork District
Happ Olson reported that the committee for this project has made recommendations
based on public input and also developed an alternative cost-savings concept
modification for consideration. The information has been forwarded to the City
Manager's office for consideration and review.
ADJOURNMENT: Motion by Monk, seconded by Doyle to adjourn the February 19,
2026 Historic Preservation Commission meeting. Motion carried by the following vote:
Aye — Janice Esser, Bill Doyle, Tim Gau, Heidi Pettitt, Rick Stuter, Chad Witthoeft,
Adam Schwendinger, Christy Monk; Nay — none.
The meeting adjourned at 6:54 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
� � �
i'`'����'`.,, March 19, 2026
ally V�e im , Planning Services Director Adopted
Page 577 of 668
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y�;� r#' � - -• : ��"-�. WHO WE ARE
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�� � � f Hills & Dales is a Dubuque based nonprofit
' �, � `�_."�____-_ � organization whose mission isto build
\ , `�,� �� — - . meaningful lives for individuals with
� ' i �—_ ' disabilities by offering services that support
�; ;/� � �., the whole person and enhance community
" '� � \ inclusion.
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- � � PROJ ECT & PU RPOSE
� -- - � We are working alongside the City of Dubuque
' "�- � cf�'��� ` i '��'�� 4� . `� and a team of local and national arts
��: • ' + ! . professionals to install a temporary roadway
� � �'�� � �`a� mural on 4t" Street in May 2026. The goal ofthe
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,� • � =� t _� �. . ' -_,�"""i ',+ ��� � mural is to create a beautiful piece of art that
�� ,,."� �--� � `� ���`,', � ��. celebrates individuals with differing mobility
`� ,_ � , f` � ,.�_ - � ,,��,,,�;�� , needs. We plan to host a community painting
' " r c'�' ��/�\//�'' � � event "block party" style.
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p;;;�.�' . �+'�� � � '�:,.�'ti This diverse art experience with ALL community
"��� Vti�; :�.� ' •� � ' � � ''�'w-°' � members invited, no matter abilities or mobility,
,-�.. ,.� � ' �• � - ��'' � � offers a new opportunity for increased
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� _�.����.� belonging and creative expression.
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�� `�� 'i, ��� -"�.'r`� As a 4th Street business/property owner,
� � �,, we know that you care deeply about this
���� `�;,, ,�` �' �'`',� neighborhood and know it best. We believe
, '`�� �:
- � , � _ this event and mural will bring more
z
` '� >,,- � community members and visitors to the
i : � � ,_ area. We deeplyvalueyour input and look
���.,-�.. '�' � � forward to partnering with you.
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I �_.'��^; � Page 578 of 668
'`y , i Y�. � � ��
FAQ ,� -
Why a roadway mural? , _ _
.,
Having the mural installed on the street, rather r+'- � I . �
•�r 1�._.._
than a vertical wall, allows for more equitable j:,,.-.
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participation by individuals who cannot stand, � . - --� �, r _
hold a traditional paintbrush, etc. - _ �"" � ;� !
� - • ' . -
-- .-'�`•.
Who will design the mural? •
We are hosting a national Call for Artists to find �
an artist to create a piece that is both beautiful '
and highlights our mission and purpose of
highlighting persons using differing mobilities
to help create the artwork. A review committee ' ' - �
will be developed to help ensure the mural is • ; r� : ' �' ���._
one the community will be proud of. ��„, ,
How will the mural be maintained? -z��
This is a temporary mural. It will fade overtime, . >r��
and will be professionally removed or repainted � .� , � -�
within 1 year of installation. + ' ��
�--- � � ;��. �l � _ �
Will this affect parking or access to my � wg
business? �` � � " - ,% % �'_ <�'° . �
, -_�_� �
We expect to have the enti rety of 4t" Street
(including parking) blocked off from vehicle � _ _ _ � . � �
access for approximately 2.5-3 days over the _ _ _
course ofthe mural's instillation in mid-May � � �
(exact dates TBD). That said, the • • " • • • • •
street/sidewalks will still be accessible for . . . - . , - .
pedestrians, and we expect to bring in several
hundred community members to the area over �
the course of the event ' � ' - ' ' •
• � -
Is a street mural safe? �
• � . - -
Yes! Many studies have been done on the safety
and positive social and economic impacts of � • • " � • •
streetway murals. We are also working closely • �
with the City of Dubuque to ensure all traffic _
• . • • • . • .
and safety laws are being considered.
We support the 4t" Street Mobility Mural Project!
Business Name:
Signature:
Name and Title:
Date:
Page 579 of 668
� Outlook
Hills & Dales Mobility Mural Project Planning & Implementation Update
From Deanne Althoff <dalthoff@hillsdales.org>
Date Fri 3/27/2026 1:50 PM
To Justine Hull <�hull@cityofdubuque.org>
Cc jmescher@hillsdales.org <jmescher@hillsdales.org>
�J 4 attachments (3 MB)
Minutes HPC 02-19-2026 Approved.pdf; BSNA Minutes 2-19-26.pdf; Mobility Mural Informational Flyer.pdf; RFQ 2026.pdf;
Caution!This message was sent from outside your organization. Never give your Block sender I Report
login information and password over email!
Justine —
Thanks so much for your time the other day and all the assistance you have and will continue to
provide in support of the mural! I have attached and included a recap of planning and some of
the implementation materials/info we discussed.
• Hired Lyric Morris-Latchaw, local artist/muralist, on contract to share her expertise as an
"Art Director"
• Met with City Planning and Traffic Engineering staff members
• Shared mural proposal/concept with local businesses on 4th Street
o Informational Flyer shared (attached) via email and in-person with many business
owners. Have received full support/positive comments and no negative responses
thus far.
• Presentation to Historic Preservation Commission on 2/19/26 with full advisory review
support (minutes attached)
• Presentation to Bluff Street Neighborhood Association on 2/19/26 with unanimous
endorsement (minutes attached)
• RFQ publicly shared through multiple channels (attached)
• Formed Mural Review Committee - Members: Sam Mulgrew, Jessie Rebik, Kelly (Hills &
Dales client living on Bluff St.), Eric Whitfield (4th/Bluff business owner), Lyric Morris-
Latchaw, Jack Mescher, and Deanne Althoff
o Two other business owners on 4th Street were invited to participate on the Review
Committee and were unable to participate due to conflicts, but provide full support
and look to other ways to engage in the project.
o Met on 3/23 and reviewed responses to RFQ. Two finalists were selected to proceed
to final design phase, with MOUs completed.
o Design concepts are due by 4/12, with the Review Committee then meeting to select
the final artist
Jack, if there is anything else you can think of that I may have missed, please chime in!
Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you again, Justine, and be in touch once
you know more on approval, dates, etc.!
Page 580 of 668
Deanne Althoff
Mission Advancement & Community Relations Director
Hills & Dales
563-556-7878
hillsdales.org
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Page 581 of 668