Venice staff proposing new site for butterfly statue

VENICE — The City Council will consider a new proposed location in the Monty Andrews Arboretum in West Blalock Park for a butterfly statue being donated by artist Lugufelo.

North of the gazebo, it’s farther from the playground and shaded, with limited exposure to the park’s sprinkler system, an April 29 memo to the Council says.

It isn’t close to the butterfly garden in the arboretum, as the Citizen Advisory Board had recommended.

Residents had raised concerns that children might climb on the statue even though there would be a sign prohibiting it, with Florida-Friendly landscaping encircling it to discourage climbing.

That was enough for the Council to direct staff to try to come up with alternative sites.

The location being proposed has been agreed upon by Andrews, the artist and residents, the memo says.

Other business

Also on Tuesday the Council is scheduled to:

Hear first reading of an ordinance amending provisions of the Municipal Firefighters’ Pension Trust Fund.Hear first reading of an ordinance amending city code provisions related to procurements and surplus or scrap property disposal.Hear first reading of an ordinance amending the land development code to authorize temporary portable storage containers.Consider creating a solid waste and recycling rate stakeholder’s work group.Consider directing the appropriate charter officer to research and compile information and recommendations regarding the safety of the main entrance and exit from Toscana Isles.Discuss the intent behind the student position on advisory boards and the requirements to qualify.Proclaim the Week of May 12-18, 2024, as “Police Memorial Week.”Proclaim the Week of May 18-24, 2024, as “National Safe Boating Week.”Proclaim the week of May 19-25, 2024, as “Public Works Week.”Proclaim the week of May 19-25, 2024, as “Emergency Medical Services Week.”Proclaim the week of May 6-12, 2024, as “Nurses and Hospital Week.”Present a five-year service award to Divisional Permit Coordinator Alicia Chapman.Present the city’s Legacy Award, honoring the late Julia Cousins Laning, to her nephew, Jimmy Cousins.

The City Council meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 14, in Council Chambers at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave. The agenda is at VeniceGov.com.