The 1% for Art ordinance sets aside 1 percent of the city of Seattle's capital spending for public art.

Last year, in a complicated class-action suit, King County Superior Court Judge Sharon Armstrong ruled that Seattle City Light, a large contributor to the 1% for Art program because of the number of capital projects it undertakes, can no longer participate in the program. It can still purchase art for its buildings if it reflects the agency's purpose. The city has appealed the ruling.

Recently, the same group filed another suit against Seattle Public Utilities. Among other issues, it disputes that agency's participation in the 1% program.

Key issues in the lawsuit will probably be determined by the pending appeal of the earlier case.

— Sheila Farr