Chair Falco called the meeting to order at 5:32 pm.

Commissioner Price made a motion to approve minutes, seconded by Commissioner Shay.

Motion passed 3-0-2.

Ayes: Falco, Price, Shay

Nays: None

Absent: Bernal, Schultz

Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion recapped the recent Ad Hoc Committee meeting. The committee began by establishing goals for the proposed program, focusing primarily on raising awareness—not only of individuals and groups doing impactful work in the arts—but also on the broader importance of arts education and information-sharing within the community. This includes both City programs and those offered by other local organizations.

The committee emphasized the need for a program that is simple to implement and sustainable, rather than one that requires ongoing reinvention.

The tentative plan is to launch the program in October, aligning with National Arts and Humanities Month. In the months leading up to the launch, the committee anticipates developing the program structure, opening an application or nomination window, and finalizing the recognition process. The method and setting of formal recognition (e.g., during a Commission meeting or at community events) is still under consideration.

There was also discussion around using Brea Fest as a possible platform to announce the program publicly, potentially with a kickoff from the Mayor inviting community nominations.

Staff will continue developing the framework over the coming weeks, with the goal of reconvening the Ad Hoc Committee in late July or early August to finalize recommendations. No additional work has been completed at this time, but the Commission is encouraged to share any feedback or ideas to help guide the next steps.

Gallery Director Katie Chidester shared highlights from the highly successful Opening Night of the 40th Annual Made in California exhibit. She also introduced Kathleen Fenstermaker and Kennelyn DeLoach, staff members at the Brea Gallery, who provided an update on the most recent Fresh Air artist-in-residence visits.

Community Services Special Events Supervisor Kristin Steyerman invited the Commission to attend several upcoming events, including the Country Fair, Family Films, and Brea Fest.