Annapolis West Street Sculpture Solicits Comments

Three finalists have been selected by the City of Annapolis to create a sculpture that will be installed at Westgate Circle. Located at the convergence of Taylor Avenue, Spa Avenue, and West Street; this is a major gateway point into the city. It is wonderful that the city has chosen to invest un the “Art in Public Places” program, although living nearby on a street in sore need of repaving, I do wish the city was able to invest in much needed infrastructure repairs as well. What is troubling to me is that in seeking public comment on the three proposals, posted on the Annapolis Government Website, there is no structure in place to prevent multiple comments from extraneous individuals who may not even be city residents. Currently, you can post a comment without even giving an email address, let alone your full name, address, and phone number and there is no limit to the number of comments. The result is that the ability for the public to comment has turned into a popularity contest, with a number of snarky comments being posted in reference to the three artists. Should the position of Art Critic be open to the general public? What do you think?