HILLS

The threat of wind, rain and thunder did not deter folks from gathering at Hills Fire Station on Tuesday morning, June 3, where they posed for photos, cut a ribbon, and munched a celebratory cookie.

Aside from the ribbon part, you can bet selfies and sweets will be a regular part of life here from now on, because that new mural on the side of the fire station is a magnet. Filled with color, movement, and whimsical details like a baseball dotting the ‘i’ in Hills, one can’t help wanting to be around it.

It fills the town with its own kind of sunshine.

“[The mural] is a celebration of community creativity and collaboration. It is a visual story of Hills’ identity, spirit and values. It reflects the pride the residents take in their town and the partnerships that continue to strengthen it,” Jessica Walker, Community Development Specialist at East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG), said, welcoming those gathered for the ribbon cutting event.

The mural was made possible through a collaborative effort between the City of Hills, ECICOG, the Keep Iowa Beautiful/Hometown Pride programs, and the University of Iowa Office of Community Engagement. The large-scale public art piece was painted by local artist and UI graduate student Drew Etienne, who has created works throughout the state, including in Iowa City and Des Moines.

“It’s an exciting time in the City of Hills,” Adriane Sedlacek, City Administrator, said. “Over the past few years, we’ve seen some incredible improvements to our community spaces. From the new splash pad and bandshell at the park to the beautiful Songbird Sanctuary Park, we’ve been working hard to make Hills an even better place to live, play and gather.

“And we’re not done yet,” she continued. “By the end of the year, we’ll be adding brand new playground equipment at both the Fire Station Park and the Hills City Park, giving our families and children even more safe, fun places to enjoy.”

The mural, which features Hills icons, such as an Eldon C. Stutsman truck, Hills Elementary sign, and Hills Bank building, has been over a year in the planning. It is made possible through support from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Local funding partners include Hills Bank and the University of Iowa Office of Community Engagement. The City of Hills was awarded an Aureon Charity Grant for the installation cost, with match funding provided by Sharon Telephone Company.

“Together, we created a design that reflects who we are, where we come from, and where we’re going,” Sedlacek said. “We are thrilled to share this moment with all of you.”

See the new Hills Hometown Pride mural at Hills Fire Station, 90 N. First Street, Hills, facing the Songbird Sanctuary Park on Main Street.