CPAC reviewed a draft CAFE (call for entry) posting and timeline for the 2026 Art Around Town program and discussed artist stipends and logistics.

Staff presented a proposed public posting schedule (current draft: public release Nov. 17, 2025; submission deadline Feb. 10; notifications March 6; contracts due March 27; install May 18–June 3; reception June 4). Members recommended collecting higher-resolution photos and a short artist statement during submission to speed marketing and card production.

The commission held an extended discussion about artist compensation. Current practice includes a modest travel allowance ($250) and honoraria; members proposed increasing the travel allowance to $500 or offering a $1,000 honorarium plus a travel stipend so the program stays competitive with other towns. Staff (Laurie) said she would check with public-works budgeting staff (Kevin and Ross were mentioned) and the trustees about whether funds could be increased; members discussed possibly delaying the CAFE release up to Dec. 1 if the additional funding required trustee review.

Members also discussed assigning board contacts to visiting artists to provide on-site assistance, capture higher-quality photos during install, and provide a more welcoming experience for visiting artists. Staff will follow up with the budget office and report to CPAC so final posting and stipend amounts can be confirmed before publication.