1. General Session
1.A. Call to Order
Vice Chair Bernal called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.
1.B. Pledge of Allegiance
Vice Chair Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1.C. Invocation
Vice Chair Bernal asked for a moment of silence and gratitude.
1.D. Matters from the Audience
None.
2. Action
2.A. Commission Reorganization
Commissioner Schultz made a motion to nominate Vice Chair Bernal to serve as Chair. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Shay.
Vote: Motion passed 5–0.
Ayes: Bernal, Price, Schultz, Shay, Tinio
Nays: None
Commissioner Price made a motion to nominate Commissioner Schultz as Vice Chair. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Shay.
Vote: Motion passed 5–0.
Ayes: Bernal, Price, Schultz, Shay, Tinio
Nays: None
2.B. Approval of Minutes
Chair Bernal pointed out a minor correction. Commissioner Price made a motion to approve the December 10, 2025 minutes as amended. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Shay.
Vote: Motion passed 4–0–1
Ayes: Bernal, Price, Schultz, Shay
Nays: None
Abstain: Tinio
2.C. Approval of the 26/27 Curtis Theatre Season
Theatre Director Kris Kataoka provided an overview of upcoming theatre partnerships and productions, including the Evening of Latin Jazz and the Page to Stage Festival. He also discussed partnerships with Larking House and the Orchestra Collective, the Amplify program highlighting under served communities, and the youth theatre program, including upcoming productions such as Newsies and Shrek Jr. He noted the challenges of securing rights for certain productions.
Vice Chair Schultz made a motion to approve the 26/27 Curtis Theatre Season which was seconded by Commissioner Shay.
Vote: Motion passed 5-0
Ayes: Bernal, Schlutz, Price, Shay, Tinio
Nays: None
3. Discussion
3.A. Committee Appointments
After a brief discussion, it was determined that most committee appointments would remain the same. Commissioner Tinio as the newest member will serve on the Gallery and Theatre Committees.
4. Reports
4.A. Gallery Committee
Gallery Director Katie Chidester stated they had not yet held a meeting but provided an update on the gallery’s activities, including the current exhibit and the annual call for art for Made in California, which received a record number of submissions.
4.B. Theatre Committee
Commissioner Price reported that the Committee met recently and received an overview of the upcoming season ahead of tonight’s meeting.
4.C. Site Awareness Committee
Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion reported on the recent meeting, highlighting potential improvements such as enhanced signage and wayfinding, as well as the importance of tracking their effectiveness.
4.D. Art in Public Places Committee
Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion discussed the ongoing efforts to manage and maintain the public art collection, including the repair and replacement of damaged pieces. She commended the gallery staff for their dedication and the progress made in overseeing the public art program. She acknowledged the challenges involved and underscored the importance of continued support to ensure the program’s success.
4.E. Country Fair Committee
Chair Bernal shared that the Committee held its kickoff meeting in February and is scheduled to meet again on March 19. She noted that the group is currently working through a range of topics and priorities as part of its ongoing efforts.
4.F. General Plan Steering Committee
Commissioner Price provided an update on the General Plan (Brea 2050), emphasizing the importance of community input and the thoroughness of the planning process. She also highlighted the upcoming open house on March 12, 2026, aimed at gathering community feedback on the General Plan. Staff shared materials and information about the open house with the Commission, and commissioners were encouraged to distribute the information within the community and submit feedback during the open comment period, which remains open through March 30.
5. Informational
5.A. Information Memorandum/Staff Updates
Curtis Theatre Director reported that the Something Rotten show sold out within the first week. He also reported that they had been nominated for 21 OC Theatre Guild Awards for 2025 productions.
Community Services Supervisor Kristin Steyerman shared updates on upcoming events, including the Pet Expo, a cultural event on May 2 in conjunction with Movies Under the Stars featuring 55–60 vendors, Sister City participation, food trucks, and performances, and the Spring Craft Boutique (March 20–21), which is sold out indoors with limited outdoor space remaining.
Ms. Steyerman also highlighted the recent Sister City visit from Anseong, Korea, which hosted approximately 30 students and chaperones.
Additional upcoming events include the 7th Annual Pet Expo on April 11 and the Go. Serve. Brea. event on April 25, with volunteer sign-ups opening March 16.
Gallery Director Katie Chidester reported that the gallery opened its first 2026 exhibit, “Mixed Feelings: Existing in the Space Between,” in January, curated by staff member Kennelyn Deloach to highlight multi-ethnic and mixed-race artists. The exhibit has received positive feedback, with ongoing tours, an upcoming artist panel, and a closing reception scheduled for March 20.
She also reported that the annual Call for Art received a record 5,073 submissions, generating approximately $63,000 in revenue. A total of 96 acceptance letters were issued, with selections made by a diverse panel of jurors.
Ms. Chidester provided updates on the Art in Public Places projects, including conservation work on the Lamplighter sculpture, repairs and replacements for several damaged or stolen pieces, and new or ongoing installations at various locations. She noted continued coordination with artists, property owners, and developers.
5.B. Commissioner Requests
The Commission inquired about the amphitheater at Arovista Park. Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion confirmed that an amphitheater is planned for the site, noting that while the project has experienced some delays, it is now making solid progress. She stated that an official opening date is not yet available but is expected in the coming weeks, at which time it will be shared with the Commission.
Ms. Colacion also noted that she is in ongoing communication with staff regarding the future of the Concerts in the Park program, including the potential use of the amphitheater as a venue. She added that the site is well-suited for such events and that discussions are ongoing. The Commission will be kept informed as decisions are made.
6. Adjournment
Chair Bernal adjourned the meeting at 6:57 pm.