A representative of the Leesburg Police Department told the Commission on Public Art on Aug. 4 that the department is discussing a mural for the new entry vestibule of its expanded station and is seeking the commission’s guidance on scope, theme and procurement.

The police representative said the building will remain the county’s only 24-hour law enforcement facility and that the proposed mural would be directly inside the vestibule near the new public entry doors. “We are the only 24 7 law enforcement agency in Loudoun County … our doors never closed,” the representative said, describing why the site is highly visible to the public.

Commission members and staff outlined the practical steps the commission typically follows: issue a call to artists, leave the call open 30–60 days, collect portfolios and fully realized sketches, then route any recommended selection to town council for approval. Commission staff advised that from drafting a call to artists to installation and a ribbon-cutting, a four-month schedule is a safe estimate.

Staff also discussed logistics the artist must consider for an indoor installation: ventilation during painting, sunlight exposure through the glass enclosure, scaffolding or ladders for access and material durability for an interior wall that will receive direct sunlight. Commission staff said they will include environmental and material requirements in the call so submissions address longevity and installation safety.

On budget, commission staff asked whether the department would use town funds or police department funds and asked for an initial budget before formalizing the call. The police representative said the station renovation is not expected to conclude before March 2026, giving time to plan and route approvals.

Commission staff offered to draft the call and promote it through the commission’s channels and to assist in vetting portfolios and final designs before the selection is presented to the council.

The commission did not make any formal funding commitments at the meeting; staff and police agreed to follow up offline to confirm wall dimensions and budget parameters.