Council approves mural ordinance

At their meeting Tuesday night, the Paso Robles City Council approved an ordinance to set up a procedure allowing residents to paint original and vintage art murals on private buildings. The procedure follows one developed in Portland, Oregon which allows artists to meet with neighbors to get their approval for murals on private buildings. An example of such a mural is on the north side of Spring Seafood Bar & Grill at 1215 Spring Street in Paso Robles. One of the issues which the council discussed thoroughly, what if people complain about a mural after it’s painted on a building.

Councilman Fred Strong reminded the council business owners do not want to annoy or upset their potential customers by allowing an offensive mural on the wall of a building. He cited Philadelphia, where murals have become a tourist attraction. Councilman Jim Reed cast the only dissenting vote on the policy and procedure. The council approved the proposal for first reading. It will come back before the council before it becomes a city ordinance.

The council also gave a proclamation to Troop 60 Scoutmaster Steven von Dohlen for his service.

And the council proclaimed this week Constitution Week.
Tuesday’s meeting was the council’s regularly scheduled meeting.

Tonight, the council hosts another Paso Talks meeting to discuss Tourism. That will be held Wednesday night, Sept. 19, from 6:30-8 p.m. at La Bellasera Hotel and Suites.