Reedsburg approves $25,000 Webb Park grant for American Legion cannon restoration

The Reedsburg Common Council on May 12 approved a $25,000 grant from the Webb Park Fund to the American Legion Post 350 to help restore a cannon memorial and install granite benches in Webb Park.

The grant covers part of a $100,000 Phase 2 project to place the cannon on a new pad, add flag poles and lighting, and install granite benches and stonework. Jesse Arias, a Post representative for American Legion Post 350, told the council the group raised funds last year and was returning to request the second half of the originally requested $50,000.

"With that money, we got the new pad in, got the new flag poles up, got the lighting up and everything, and now we're ready for phase 2," Arias said. "Phase 2 is gonna be very ambitious. We need to raise a $100,000 this year ... and I [am] very optimistic ... that we will be able to accomplish that this year."

Council members recalled that the council approved a $25,000 grant the prior year with the understanding the Legion would return for additional support. Council member John Dietrich moved to approve the second $25,000 grant and praised the Post's community work, noting scholarship and event support. "There's a number of examples of what they've done for the community ... they have been very helpful and instrumental," Dietrich said.

The motion to approve the $25,000 grant was seconded by Phil Peterson and carried on a voice vote.

Council members asked about the Webb Park Fund balance and other obligations tied to the account. City staff discussed prior pledges and obligations but did not provide a precise remaining balance at the meeting.

The cannon is scheduled to appear in the upcoming Butterfest parade before being permanently anchored in Webb Park, council members said.