TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: Peter D. Lear, CPA, CGMA, Interim City Manager
TITLE: Update on the Three Graces Fountain and sculpture
Recommended Action
None
Background Information
The Three Graces Fountain and sculpture (Sculpture) was created in 1958 by artist Sophia Johnstone. It is located within the center median of Ortiz Boulevard near the Ortiz Boulevard/U.S. 41 intersection. This report provides an update on the status of the project to refurbish/rehabilitate the Sculpture and fountain, including:
* Define ownership,
* Review site safety issues,
* Stakeholder outreach,
* Draft cost estimates and funding options, and
* Ongoing operations and maintenance.
RELEVANT PRIOR BOARD ACTION:
1. September 6, 2016 - The Board requested further discussion at the upcoming September 12, 2016 Joint Meeting with City of North Port.
2. September 12, 2016 (Joint Meeting with City of North Port) - both Boards requested additional information needed.
OUTREACH:
Staff has met with the following archaeological groups plus numerous citizens:
* Sarasota County Historical Commission
* Historical Preservation Coalition
* Florida Anthropological Society (FAS)
* Warm Mineral Springs / Little Salt Spring Archaeological Society
Budget level estimates for renovation of the statue were received from the following, either in writing or verbally:
* Shellspen International, Inc.
* Dowd Studio and Artworks
* Precise Trim
ANALYSIS/NEXT STEPS:
Ownership:
Sarasota County's Real Estate Services Division researched related deeds dating back to 1957 regarding Warm Mineral Springs. No references to the Sculpture are mentioned within the deed documents. The title policy from the County co-purchase and subsequent sale to the City of North Port does not include any exceptions relating to the Sculpture. As the owner of the right-of-way upon which the Sculpture sits and absent any demonstration of an affirmative adverse claim of ownership, the County is...
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