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Home My WebLink AboutD_Highlands Neighborhood Center Mural_Final_20260624DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLANNING DIVISION PUBLIC ART EXEMPTION EVALUATION FORM & DECISION DATE OF DECISION: June 24, 2026 PROJECT NUMBER: LUA26-000204, PAE PROJECT NAME: Highlands Neighborhood Center Mural PROJECT MANAGER: Brianna Burroughs, Associate Planner OWNER/APPLICANT: City of Renton 1055 S Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057 CONTACT: Shelly Metzer, Acorn Murals 1205 Grant Ave S, Apt Q204, Renton, WA 98055 PROJECT LOCATION: 800 Edmonds Ave NE, Renton, WA 98056 (APN 7227502515) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The applicant is requesting a public art exemption for a community wall mural at 800 Edmonds Ave NE (APN 7227502515). The proposed wall mural will be 1,760 square feet in size and is proposed to be located on the north wall of the existing structure facing the Highland Neighborhood Park’s playground (Attachments A & B). The building is owned by the City of Renton and is operated and maintained by the Renton Parks and Recreation Department. The project is funded jointly by Renton’s Paint with Purpose Program and the Parks and Recreation Department, with support from the Renton Municipal Arts Commission (Attachment C). The mural design would be completed by Renton-based artist Shelly Metzger. Metzger describes the project as creating a vibrant welcoming space, enhancing the park’s beauty, and would serve as a dynamic backdrop for the playground. Using bold, uplifting colors, the artwork would aim to inspire joy, spark curiosity, and foster a sense of pride within the community. The mural will be painted on the side of the building as a graffiti deterrent and will be finished with a durable topcoat to protect the artwork (Attachments A & B). The Renton Municipal Arts Commission reviewed the final proposed design at a meeting on June 2, 2026 (Attachment D). CODE AUTHORITY: Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-9-160F gives the Department of Community and Economic Development authority to grant exemptions from the sign code for 'objects of art' provided an Exemption Certificate for Public Art is issued. The code defines 'objects of art' as sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages or banners by artists recognized by the Renton Municipal Arts commission. EVALUATION CRITERIA: Per RMC 4-9-160C, the Department of Community and Economic Development may determine that objects of art are exempt from the requirements of the City's Sign code when: a. Sited in a manner as to be readily accessible to pedestrians for passive viewing; b. Sited in a manner so as not to unduly divert the attention of motorists from the roadway; Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Certificate of Exemption From Sign Code for an Object of Art Highlands Neighborhood Center Mural LUA26-000204, PAE Permit Date: June 24, 2026 Page 2 of 2 D_Highlands Neighborhood Center Mural_Final c. Stationary and do not revolve or otherwise move; d. Not illuminated; e. In good taste and reasonably reflect acceptable community values; f. Of sufficient durability so as to have a life expectancy of at least ten (10) years; g. Not used or referred to in the media or by the owners of the premises or operators of businesses contained thereon for business advertising purposes. Staff Comments: Staff finds the proposed exemption meets all seven (7) of the evaluation criteria. DECISION: An exemption from the sign code regulations for an object of art is hereby Approved for the proposed art project. SIGNATURE & DATE OF DECISION: for Matthew Herrera, Planning Director Date APPEAL: Appeals of permit issuance must be filed in writing on or before 5:00 p.m. on July 8, 2026. An appeal of the decision must be filed within the 14-day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3); WAC 197- 11-680). Appeals must be submitted electronically to the City Clerk at cityclerk@rentonwa.gov or delivered to City Hall 1st floor Lobby Hub Monday through Friday. The appeal fee, normally due at the time an appeal is submitted, will be collected at a future date if your appeal is submitted electronically. The appeal submitted in person may be paid on the first floor in our Finance Department. Appeals to the Hearing Examiner are governed by RMC 4-8-110 and additional information regarding the appeal process may be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office, cityclerk@rentonwa.gov. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A: Design Proposal by Renton-based Artist Shelly Metzger Attachment B: Final Design and Email correspondence with Jessie Kotarski, City of Renton, Economic Development Manager Attachment C: City of Renton Finance Committee Report from June 8, 2026, approving funding support for the Paint with Purpose Program from 4Culture Attachment D: Meeting Minutes from June 2, 2026, Renton Arts Commission Meeting Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 6/24/2026 | 1:46 PM PDT Proposed By Shelly Metzger Acorn Murals ACORNM*756DM MURAL ESTIMATES Proposed For Hanna Dillingham City of Renton | Parks and Recreation Highlands Park and Neighborhood Center 800 Edmonds Ave NE, Renton, WA 98056 ATTACHMENT: A ATTACHMENT: A tt Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 ABOUT THE ARTIST SCOPE Shelly Metzger is a muralist whose lifelong passion for color drives her large- scale, site-specific artwork. Originally from the East Coast, Shelly settled in Washington State, where the muted environment deepened her commitment to creating vibrant, uplifting public art that transforms spaces and lifts the spirit. With over a decade of painting experience, including specializing in murals since 2023, Shelly has turned ordinary walls into meaningful landmarks. She believes a wall should do more than just support a roof. It should reflect the character of the space, spark curiosity, and invite people to engage with their surroundings. Her work blends elements of nature, whimsy, and bold colors, encouraging a sense of wonder and connection that draws people back. Shelly has collaborated with businesses, healthcare facilities, nonprofits, city programs, and private clients to create murals that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful. While based in Washington State, she loves traveling for projects that align with her vision and values. Exterior Mural for Highlands Park and Neighborhood Center (HPNC) The proposed mural will transform the exterior of HPNC into a vibrant, welcoming space that enhances the park’s beauty and will serve as a dynamic backdrop for the new playground opening in spring 2026. Using bold, uplifting colors, the artwork aims to inspire joy, spark curiosity, and foster a sense of pride within the community. Studies show that walls with murals experience significantly less graffiti than standard walls. To protect the artwork, it will be finished with a durable topcoat, helping it remain vibrant and enjoyed by the public for years to come. Requested Design Elements: Sporting equipment / park amenities Colors to coordinate with the new playground equipment Suggested Mural Locations: Wall facing the parking lot (this is the wall I recommend as it will have the highest visibility and impact as it is seen from the street, parking lot, and playground) Wall facing the ball field Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 MOOD BOARD Color Pallet Inspiration Colors would coordinate with the new playground equipment. Inspiration concept art provided by Jessie Kotarski The new playground design, created by Northwest Playground Equipment, Photo from the City of Renton Additional park amenities to be discussed Visual Inspiration for the Mural(s) This moodboard highlights visual inspiration for the proposed mural(s), emphasizing a vibrant, welcoming, and playful approach. The artwork will feature park amenities through 3D elements, clean blocks of color, and engaging patterns. To reflect the full range of park visitors, the design could also include elements such as dogs, local flora, and wildlife, creating an engaging environment for visitors of all ages that celebrates both activity and the natural beauty of the park. Words associated with modern, contemporary design include: • Clean • Graphic • Bold • Playful • Inviting • Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 SIZE & PLACEMENT AREA 3 Area 3 - 8' x 80', 640 sq/ft AREA 2 Area 2 - 12.5' x 80', 1,000 sq/ft During our meeting, we discussed the following areas as potential mural locations. Size recommendations and placements are approximate. AREA 1 Area 1 - 8' x 80' + 8' x 50', 1,040 sq/ft AREA 4 Area 4 - 10' x 40', 400 sq/ft Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 PREVIOUS WORK & WALL TRANSFORMATIONS The Broad Strokes Project Longview, WA 21' x 37' Park Orchard Elementary School Kent, WA 8.5-9.5' x 16' Nucor Steel Seattle, WA 8' x 12' City of Tenino, and the ARCH Commission Tenino, WA 11.5' x 21.5' Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 NEXT STEPS ESTIMATES Estimates are based on surface texture, height accessibility, and complexity of the design. Mural pricing starts at $25–$45 per square foot, plus tax. This includes admin, design, priming, and painting. A specific quote will be provided with each design. Area 1 - 8' x 80', 640 sq/ft Area 2 - 8' x 80' + 8' x 50', 1,040 sq/ft Area 3 - 12.5' x 80', 1,000 sq/ft These estimates are valid through January 15 , 2026.th (361) 302-2676 AcornMurals@gmail.com www.AcornMurals.com ACORNM*756DM @AcornMurals THANK YOU $30,573 - $41,294 $29,250 - $34,063 $18,900 - $25,460 $12,000 - $16,700 Area 1 - 8' x 80' + 8' x 50', 1,040 sq/ft Area 2 - 12.5' x 80', 1,000 sq/ft Area 3 - 8' x 80', 640 sq/ft Area 4 - 10' x 40', 400 sq/ft To move forward or learn more contact: From there we can: Begin a collaborative conversation to refine ideas and gather feedback on the concept Determine the size and scope that best suit your needs and budget Enter a design development phase to create a tailored mural Jessie Kotarski Paint with Purpose - Point of Contact jkotarski@rentonwa.gov 425-430-7271 Shelly Metzger Acorn Murals - Mural Artist Contact Below Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 1 Brianna Burroughs Subject:FW: Art Exemption Permit: Highlands Neighborhood Center Attachments:June 2026 Minutes_DRAFT.pdf; Approved Committee Reports_June 8. 2026.pdf; Master Application_Highlands Neighborhood Center..pdf Jessie, Thanks for submitting an art exemption request for the mural at Highlands Neighborhood Center. Brianna will be processing this one. I appreciate that the design now covers the entire façade. Regards, CLARK CLOSE, Current Planning Manager City of Renton // Planning Virtual Permit Center // Online Applications and Inspections office 425-430-7289 From: Jessie Kotarski <JKotarski@Rentonwa.gov> Sent: Friday, June 12, 2026 11:07 AM To: Matthew Herrera <MHerrera@Rentonwa.gov>; Clark Close <CClose@Rentonwa.gov> Subject: RE: Art Exemption Permit: Highlands Neighborhood Center I forgot to include the design! ATTACHMENT: B ATTACHMENT: B Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 2 JESSIE KOTARSKI, Economic Development Manager City of Renton // Community and Economic Development Virtual Permit Center // Online Applications and Inspections o7ice 425-430-7271 From: Jessie Kotarski Sent: Friday, June 12, 2026 10:35 AM To: Matthew Herrera <MHerrera@Rentonwa.gov>; Clark Close <CClose@Rentonwa.gov> Subject: Art Exemption Permit: Highlands Neighborhood Center Hi Matt and Clark, I’m requesting an art exemption for a Paint with Purpose mural project in the Highlands, located on the Highlands Neighborhood Center. Here’s the information for the proposed mural: • Artist Information: o Shelly Metzger, Acorn Murals. https://acornmurals.com/ o The project is being funded through a partnership between the Paint with Purpose Program and the Parks and Recreation Department. • Design: o The selected and RMAC-approved design is below. Minutes from the June meeting are attached. o The design has been approved by City Council. The approved Committee report is attached. • Location: o Highlands Neighborhood Center (800 Edmonds Ave NE). North wall facing the playground. Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 3 The painting is scheduled to begin in early July. ~Jessie JESSIE KOTARSKI, Economic Development Manager City of Renton // Community and Economic Development Virtual Permit Center // Online Applications and Inspections o7ice 425-430-7271 Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 ATTACHMENT: C ATTACHMENT: C Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 Renton Municipal Arts Commission Tuesday, June 2, 2026 City Hall, Council Conference Room 726 or Zoom Commissioners Present: Alycia Ruiz Emma Foster Evelyn Reingold Jake Heare Melanie Cates Sara Palmer Scott Douwes Susan Jessick Renton Staff (RMAC liaison): • Jessie Kotarski Guests: • Xandra Buenbrazo, City of Renton intern Call to Order: 6:00 PM Correspondence & Announcements: • Legacy Square schedule of events – full calendar available at rentonwa.gov/LegacySquareEvents • Legacy Square grand opening scheduled for Saturday, June 6. Review of Minutes from May Meeting: • Minutes were reviewed and approved. MSC: Sara/Emma Budget Update: • No budget updates currently. • 4Culture Support: The Commission is awaiting approval of the 4Culture contract, anticipated on June 8. Committee Updates: Grants Committee ATTACHMENT: D ATTACHMENT: D Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 • Emma moved to accept the Grants Committee recommendation to award $12,600 in grant funding. (See page 3) Brooke seconded. Motion passed. Promotions Committee • Chalk Art Contest at Renton River Days scheduled for Saturday, July 25 near the Community Center with support from Allied Arts • Legacy Square volunteer opportunities, particularly on game days; commissioners encouraged to review the volunteer sign-up sheet. • Studio Tour planning underway for August; applications remain open to artists. • Discussion regarding the City of Renton business license process for artists and interest in coordinating an educational seminar with Art Oasis. • Art Lounge: Drum Roll event scheduled for June 17. • Promotions Committee meeting scheduled for June 8. Old Business: • Arts & Culture Master Plan Update - The Master Plan will move forward to City Council on June 15 with a recommendation for referral to Planning & Development. • Mural Review and Approval o Renton Art Oasis Salmon Coalition Mural (BNSF Trestle Bridge Mural on Cedar River Park Dr) Artist: Tommy Segundo in partnership with Renton Art Oasis o Funded by a grant from the Port of Seattle. o Susan moved to approve the Salmon mural design. Evelyn seconded. Jake abstained. Motion passed. • Paint with Purpose Mural – Renton Highlands Neighborhood Center o Artist: Shelly Metzger, Acorn Murals  Commission discussion included: • Extending the mural upward to align with the lighting fixtures. • Using black paint at the lower portion where landscaping will partially obscure the wall. • Softening the hard visual line while maintaining full visibility of the dog walker figure and baseball element. • Adjusting placement to elevate the bird element above the dividing line, similar to the Tenino example. Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 • Consideration of graffiti abatement concerns, including whether protective coating would reduce risks associated with large black painted areas.  Emma moved to approve the mural design. Brooke seconded. Motion passed. • Legacy Square Public Art Discussion o Continued discussion regarding paused mural installations and development of a path forward for public art at Legacy Square. o Staff shared plans for an interactive community mural experience featuring an artist and recurring participation opportunities during movie nights until completion. o Jake recommended digitally scanning the completed work for future installation opportunities, such as utility box wraps or construction barrier covers. Adjournment: 7:57 pm Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5 Applicant Contact Project Project Start date Project Description Requested amount Recommended funding amount Notes Renton Art Oasis Cathy Gonzales - President RAO Art for All 6/1/2026 Two free, one hour adult art classes per month for Renton residents of all skill levels. Led by a professional instructor, these sessions focus on accessible creative practices like painting, drawing, and mixed media, with all materials provided to remove financial barriers and encourage community connection.$3,300.00 Capoeira Life fiscally sponsored by Shunpike Emily Chao, Admin Coordinator Capoeira Workshops for Renton Youth 9/1/2026 A series of 14–16 free, one-hour youth workshops introducing Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian cultural art form rooted in resistance and resilience. Students (20–25 per session) learn movement, music, and cultural history while building rhythm, confidence, and connection through collaborative practice. $10,000.00 $300 $2400/10,000 is admin costs; $300 for instruments; $7300 for staff wages; no dates or specific Renton schools mentioned Tomato Tomato Creative Kelly Affleck, owner Teen Studio Arts 6/17/2026 A free summer open-studio program for ages 12–17, meeting twice weekly. Teens explore process-based art with minimal instruction, using materials like paint, textiles, and mixed media. $10,000.00 $9600 or $8000 Less the $100 social media and $300 administrative; how do we feel about the $1600 venue rental cost? Key to Change Seattle Summer Community Concert 6/13/2026 A free public concert on June 13, 2026 featuring South King County youth musicians, a Grammy-winning guest artist, and works by composers-in-residence. The event highlights student achievement, expands access to high-quality music education, and includes outreach, documentation, and community $10,000.00 $1,000 $1000 for student instrument supplies; TBD $1500 A/V tech and $4k (2) accompanists; the remaining monetary requests are travel and admin/printing TOTALS $33,300.00 $1,300 Rainier Breakers LLC krubel Amare Renton Youth Breakin Lab 6/16/2026 A 9-week youth program introducing breaking (breakdance) through movement and hip-hop culture. Students learn foundational techniques like toprock, footwork, freezes, and power moves while exploring hip-hop history. $7,000.00 $0 This program is not eligible for funding consideration at this time, as it has already received a grant award in 2026. Maplewood Glen Recognized Neighborhood Sandra Brooks, President Mural at the Park Summer 2026 A public art mural featuring Erasmus the Renton dragon installed on a park structure overlooking the Cedar River. Moved to 'paint with purpose' program.$5,000.00 0 Recommended for Paint with Purpose program Docusign Envelope ID: 7AE10477-C56C-8716-80D4-92438F8646D5