Background:
The existing outdoor fountain at the Public Safety Building has been non-operational for several years due to issues with the underground piping. In response, the Utilities Department, Fire Rescue Department, and Police Department collaborated on a plan to repurpose the area into an outdoor display honoring Fire and Police Rescue, including art.
The proposed scope of work includes demolition of the existing fountain, installation of hardscape to match the existing hardscape beneath the canopy, modifications to the existing landscape planters, and restoration of the wall areas on both sides where the fountain will be removed.
As part of the project, the City also proposes to commission a custom public art sculpture depicting a firefighter, police officer, and K-9. The Fire Rescue Department, Police Department, and Utilities Department researched artists with demonstrated experience creating sculptures for public safety agencies and selected Austin Weishel of Honorable Sculptures L.L.C., to create a custom, hand-sculpted bronze sculpture for the City of Sunrise Public Safety Building.
Austin Weishel has previously created sculptures for numerous public safety agencies and public entities, including the Loveland Fire Department, City of Tamarac Fire Department, Colorado Law Enforcement Memorial, Franklin County, City of Key West, and City of Fort Lauderdale. The proposed sculpture will be approximately 125 percent life-size and approximately 7.5 feet in height. The custom bronze sculpture will consist of three components: a firefighter, a police officer, and a K-9.
Repurposing the non-operational fountain will transform an underutilized area of the Public Safety Building into a meaningful public amenity that celebrates the dedication and service of the City's Fire Rescue and Police personnel while incorporating public art into the facility. The project will provide a prominent and lasting tribute to the City's public safety professionals and create an enhanced space for employees, residents, and visitors to appreciate and recognize their contributions to the community.
Staff is requesting approval for the City Manager to approve the Contract for Commission and Purchase of Public Art between the City of Sunrise, Florida and Honorable Sculptures, L.L.C. for the purchase of artwork. Since this purchase falls within the artistic services classification, the formal bidding procedures are exempt pursuant to Section 5-173(c)(6) of the Code of the City of Sunrise Florida.