Title
Cesar Chavez Artwork Deaccession and Modifications (Ordinance S-52895) - Districts 7 & 8
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or the City Manager's designee, to initiate the process to remove or modify artwork depicting, or containing the likeness of, Cesar Chavez for a total cost of approximately $20,000. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
Report
Summary
On March 25, 2026, the Phoenix City Council directed the Office of Arts and Culture to initiate the process to remove or modify artwork depicting or containing the likeness of Cesar Chavez. In partnership with the Parks and Recreation and Aviation departments, the Office of Arts and Culture recommends removal or modification of artwork at Cesar Chavez Commemorative Plaza and the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Rental Car Facility. These recommendations are in alignment with the City’s Artwork Deaccession Policy, and the original artists, Zarco Guerrero and Martin Moreno, will be engaged throughout the process.
Financial Impact
The total cost associated with these projects is $20,000. Funding is available in the Public Art Capital Improvement Program budget.
The deaccession and modification process at Cesar Chavez Commemorative Plaza will cost approximately $5,000. This cost reflects hiring Art Solutions to remove the life-size bronze sculpture and transport it to temporary storage, and the modification of a bronze plaque.
The modification of the mural and signage at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Rental Car Facility will cost approximately $15,000. This includes the redesign, fabrication, and installation of the portion of the mural that contains Chavez’s likeness.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
The Phoenix Arts and Culture Commission reviewed and recommended this item for approval on April 21, 2026, by a 7-0-1 vote.
Location
Cesar Chavez Commemorative Plaza
8440 S. 35th Avenue
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Rental Car Facility
1805 E. Sky Harbor Circle South
Council Districts: 7 and 8
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Managers Cynthia Aguilar and Frank McCune, the Parks and Recreation and Aviation departments and the Office of Arts and Culture.