Foundation Forward proposes Charters of Freedom replica for county courthouse grounds; county manager to discuss memorandum of intent

David Streeter, education director for Foundation Forward, presented the nonprofit’s Charters of Freedom program and asked the county to consider hosting a replica setting that displays the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights and selected civil‑rights amendments. The foundation builds freestanding, durable “settings” designed for public education and school field trips and said most installations are funded by the foundation’s benefactors.

Streeter said Foundation Forward will primarily fund the setting and has provided education materials and transportation support for student visits at no cost. He estimated the setting footprint at roughly 20 by 40 feet, said construction can take about six weeks with good weather, and noted the foundation also seeks local help to secure masonry subcontractors and site amenities (flagpoles, lighting, paths) which would be the county’s financial responsibility if requested.

Commissioners suggested the historic courthouse lawn as a potential site and asked the county manager to coordinate with Foundation Forward on a memorandum of intent outlining responsibilities.

Why it matters: The program would add an educational civic monument to county grounds and provide a free educational resource for schools. Foundation Forward said it funds the setting but county expenses would be limited to site amenities if accepted.

Next steps: County manager to discuss site options with Foundation Forward and prepare a proposed letter of intent or memorandum of understanding for the commissioners to consider.