Saanich council has unanimously approved a new grant program aimed at supporting community-led mural projects, as part of the next phase of the district’s Community Mural Program.
The approval allows municipal staff to administer two funding streams – grant funded and privately funded – which builds on a 2022 pilot that saw three murals created on public property.
Under the new Community Mural Grant Program, eligible non-profit groups, charities, community associations and local First Nations can apply for matching funds of up to $10,000 or 75 per cent of project costs – whichever is less.
Murals can be proposed on both private and public property, provided approvals are in place.
The second stream is for proposals that don’t seek municipal funding. These privately funded projects will go through an updated approval process overseen by staff.
Coun. Nathalie Chambers said she was “very happy” to support the initiative, which she said will help embellish the district.
“I'm very excited about this work,” she said. “Sometimes things are not always pleasant to discuss, but I think a program like this is very, very pleasant.
“I really love the two funding streams that give groups… the same level of equity and inclusion into the program.”
The $50,000 program is already funded in the current budget and aims to enhance neighbourhoods, encourage public art, and increase visibility for Indigenous and equity-deserving artists.
With council’s unanimous endorsement, staff will now finalize the application forms, artist directory, and program guidelines, with a full launch planned later this year.
