05-18-2026 BPA MIN
Meeting of the Beautification and Public
Art Committee
Held at the Elk River City Hall
Monday, May 18, 2026
Members Present:Committee Member Deb Hjermstad, Committee Member Ryan Hardin,
Committee Member Nic Hahn, Councilmember J. Brian Calva, Councilmember
Cory Grupa
Members Absent:Committee Member Melissa McAlpine
Staff Present:Economic Development Specialist Josh Mollan
1.CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Josh.
2.CONSIDER AGENDA
Moved by Ryan and seconded by Nic to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.
3.CONSIDER MINUTES
3.104-20-2026 BPA Minutes
Moved by Ryan and seconded by Cory to approve the April 20, 2026 Meeting Minutes.
Motion carried 5-0.
4.GENERAL BUSINESS
4.1Beautification Award
Josh shared that the Beautification Award nomination period is open. He also advised that staff is
looking at producing a video highlighting the program.
Josh shared two versions of concept art for the Chamber's engraved stone. He advised that Plaisted is
donating the stone and Stoneworks is donating the engraving. The committee was in favor of the
horizontal format concept. For future awards, the committee was in favor of including the 'B' logo on
bench plaques.
Josh said that he plans to promote the program at the upcoming DERBA meetings.
4.2Garden Gem Awards
Josh shared the Garden Gem Awards nominee sign. The committee liked the design and did not suggest
any changes.
Deb shared that the Sherburne County Master Gardeners could be available to assist with delivering
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May 18, 2026
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nominee signs and judging.
Josh asked the committee if anyone wanted to be in front of the camera to promote the program.
4.3Public Art
Josh shared the idea of a utility box art program. The committee was interested and wanted to see
Josh's draft outline.
Nic suggested allowing wrapped designs on the boxes for a more professional look. She also suggested
providing uniform paint for the artists.
The committee was still interested in a mural-type project.
4.4Open Discussion
Deb asked about last month's guest and her role with the committee. Josh shared that she is expected
to apply to be a member of the committee, which would fill a vacant at-large position.
5.ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Josh adjourned the meeting at 5:26 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Josh Mollan.
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Josh Mollan, Recording SecretaryJustin Dunford, City Clerk