Johnny Appleseed carving to be removed for preservation; staff estimates under $5,000 to refurbish and reset

Sunbury City parks staff told the Parks and Recreation Committee they plan to remove the Johnny Appleseed carving this year for preservation work, remove the rotten stump, and later reinstall the carving on a new base.

Staff presented photos showing deterioration at the carving's base, said the stump has moisture damage and insect infestation, and gave an initial cost estimate of under $5,000 to remove, treat, and reset the carving. Staff said they have sent an email to the donor family and will notify the community in advance so residents do not mistake the removal for theft.

The committee heard several possible reset options: placing the carving on a concrete base, or mounting it on a stump-like pedestal set on a concrete pad that allows water to drain so it does not hasten future decay. A staff member said the service team will remove the stump and that the final placement (the existing square versus Old Orchard Park or another site) remains under discussion.

When asked about timing, a staff member said the removal will occur "this year" but said the turnaround time from removal to reinstallation was not yet known; the staff member said another staffer, "Alyssa," would check turnaround timing and report back. Committee members asked about outreach to the contributing family; staff said a written communication has been sent but direct contact had not yet occurred.

No vote was taken. Staff requested the committee's buy-in to proceed with removal and preservation planning, and the committee did not object. Staff will return with a timeline, confirmed contractor estimates, and a recommended new base or location for the carving.

Ending: Staff will provide a follow-up to the committee with contractor scheduling, a confirmed cost estimate, and a plan for public notification and family consultation before removal.