The Town Council approved the naming of a portion of its public art collection in honor of former Mayor Jerry Miles, who was instrumental in founding the public art initiative in town as well as acting as a force in fundraising and donations to acquire artwork.

The Centennial Circle area between the Community Center and the Fountain Hills Library will be known as the Jerry Miles Sculpture Garden.

In an effort that spans decades Miles was involved in the drafting of the original public art master plan as well as an updated amended plan. He spearheaded fundraising efforts and made donations himself.

Community Services Director Mark Mayer said the original plan called for acquisition of 100 pieces as public art within the first 10 years. That goal was exceeded by 50 percent, as there are more than 150 pieces of art with a value of more than $1 million.

Mayor Linda Kavanagh noted that Miles wanted to achieve a public art collection for Fountain Hills that was second to none.

“This effort was a result of [Miles’] vision and planning,” Kavanagh said. “He donated two of the first pieces himself.

“All pieces are museum quality. He knew he could create an art collection that would be world renowned.

“He also wanted pieces that would appeal to children, so we see a number of whimsical, fun pieces.”

A monument dedicated to the Miles Sculpture Garden will be constructed in Centennial Circle and there will be an official dedication when that is complete.