By OnMilwaukee Staff Writers   Published May 25, 2008 at 5:05 AM

Since Visit Milwaukee announced plans to erect a bronze Fonz statue in Downtown Milwaukee, the subject of public art again became a heated debate (remember the Blue Shirt?!).

Some believe public art is extremely important and adds value and culture to a city, whereas others find it less integral to a city's reputation and self image.

But where do you stand on the issue of public art? Is it important that Milwaukee continues to increase the number of outdoor pieces of art or is it a waste of money?

Sound off, Milwaukee!

I don’t really care about public art. I really don’t think public art adds as much to a community as arts’ groups, innovative retail shops and modern bars and restaurants. If a group wants to pay for public art, that’s one thing, but public funds can be better used.

Public art is extremely important. Public art -- whether temporary or permanent installations -- provides an important aesthetic to a city. At best, it makes people think, appreciate beauty and further communicate their thoughts and ideas.