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Middleton committee inventories plaques, plans 2026 budget request and public outreach
Summary
Members compiled an inventory of missing or damaged landmark plaques, discussed preservation options and donation offers for wood backings, and agreed to prepare a 2026 budget request to fund a multi-year program of repairs and new signage with tourism integration and public outreach.
The Middleton Landmarks Committee reviewed an updated inventory of landmark plaques and outlined steps for a multi-year plan to repair, replace and publicize those markers as part of a 2026 budget request.
Committee members reported several plaques that need new wood backing, four plaques that must be created because existing markers are missing or their locations are unknown, and multiple plaques that are currently hidden from public view. A member described a wood-preservation product, Avatron, which the National Park Service accepts and which could extend the life of wood mountings by an estimated 10–15 years.
Members debated whether volunteers should perform repairs or whether city staff or contractors should handle installation because of insurance and liability concerns. One member offered to donate labor and materials for five mounts; others said the city’s insurance and staff installation would likely be required for work on private property.
The chair reported an email from the mayor requesting that the committee prepare a 2026 budget request for a multi-year signage plan. "Please work with the current chair of Landmarks to create a budget request for 2026 budget process," the chair said reading the mayor’s request. Members discussed phasing repairs (most urgent sites first), placing the request on city letterhead, and the possibility of applying for grants if costs exceed the committee’s current annual allocation.
The committee currently has $1,000 in its annual signage budget; members discussed that a comprehensive replacement program would likely require multi-year funding or grants to complete all identified work.
Members also accepted an offer to use a booth at the Good Neighbor Festival in August to survey residents about projects, and they agreed to revisit the Landmark alteration application and related ordinance wording at a future meeting.
Next steps: staff will gather firm quotes, clarify RFP and installation procedures with the city attorney and Public Works, and prepare materials for a 2026 budget request to be reviewed at the committee’s next meeting.
