A growing chorus of Charleston arts advocates is demanding City Council replace the entire Marion Square Commission following what they describe as a pattern of decisions that undermines public confidence in the historic square’s stewardship.

The call comes from prominent local artist and activist Sarah Geer, who argues the current commission has lost credibility through controversial votes on public art installations and vendor permits that she says favor commercial interests over community input.

“When you have a commission making decisions about our most visible public space without meaningful community engagement, you’ve lost the plot,” Geer said. “Marion Square belongs to all Charlestonians, not just the people who can afford to influence the process.”

The Marion Square Commission, established in 2019, oversees programming and artistic installations in the 6.5-acre park that serves as Charleston’s town square. Recent tensions have centered on the commission’s approval of corporate-sponsored events that some residents say commercialize the space at the expense of local artists and community groups.

Geer points to last month’s decision to approve a luxury car showcase that displaced the weekly farmers market as evidence the commission has strayed from its mission to serve the public interest. The commission voted 4-2 to allow the three-day event despite opposition from vendors who had already purchased permits.

“These are the kinds of decisions that make people question whether the commission is actually looking out for the community,” said downtown resident Michael Torres, who has attended several recent commission meetings. “There’s a real disconnect between what they’re approving and what neighbors are asking for.”

Commission Chair Patricia Williams defended the board’s record, noting that Marion Square hosts more than 200 events annually and generates significant revenue for local businesses. She said the commission carefully weighs community input against practical considerations like maintenance costs and liability issues.

“Every decision we make involves balancing competing interests,” Williams said. “We’re committed to transparency and welcome public participation in our process.”

City Council members have not responded to requests for comment about potentially restructuring the commission. The seven-member board includes representatives from the hospitality industry, local arts organizations, and neighborhood groups, with members serving three-year terms.

Geer argues that starting fresh with new commissioners would restore faith in the process and ensure Marion Square truly serves as Charleston’s democratic gathering place.