Commission presses for clear plan and cost estimates for Monument Park restoration after donor‑held funds stall

Commissioners raised concerns Sept. 2 about slow progress on restoration of the Civil War monument in Monument Park and about donors who earlier contributed money to a private group yet have received little follow‑up. Several commissioners said they have constituents asking where donated money went and urged the city to clarify the distinction between civic responsibilities and private fundraising.

Parks Director Jeremiah Davies said he has met twice with members of the volunteer committee that organized the fundraising and drafted a letter for donors setting out two options: allow the private funds to be used for the restoration or request return of funds. Davies said the city cannot compel private citizens to spend privately held donations and advised that, if donors allege fraud, they should seek investigation through county or state authorities — not the city — to avoid the appearance the city is involved in a private fundraising account.

Commissioners asked staff to obtain firm restoration cost estimates and to define what “restoration” would mean for the monument (cleaning and brass/copper plate conservation, full structural repair or replacement). Davies proposed contacting state experts to identify what preservation options exist and to provide the commission with a scoped estimate and plan. Commissioners also asked that any scope include the monument’s cannons and carriage work.

Transcript comments indicated donors may be holding approximately $18,000–$20,000 (figures mentioned by commissioners), but Davies and other speakers emphasized the city is not the fundraising custodian and cannot unilaterally spend those private funds. Commissioners directed staff to solicit expert quotes, clarify the restoration scope, and return with estimates and recommendations.