Council favors naturalistic Memorial Plaza concept and schedules field inspection

Landscape architect Sid Ostergaard of Arcadians presented a revised Memorial Plaza concept that shifts from a hardscape-heavy approach to a more naturalistic, rustic design. Key elements in the concept included a decomposed-granite pathway through the meadow, a heavy-timber bridge over the drainage adjacent to the pump house, a small plaza with either flagstone or decomposed granite contained by a low concrete band, and native boulders or basalt stones to bear the insignia of each branch of the armed services and local first responders. Ostergaard noted the addition of the U.S. Space Force as a sixth branch to be considered.

Council members favored locating the plaza further northeast near a grove of larger trees to reduce meadow intrusion, improve morning shade and provide a flatter, more accessible approach from the road near Snowshoe and Crooked River condominiums. Council Member Martin Tidwell emphasized accessibility concerns because of grade changes and supported the northeast relocation. Council Member Larry Freeberg raised maintenance concerns regarding wood benches and suggested routing vehicle access toward the pump house for accessible parking if feasible.

A former property owner participating by Zoom, Dave Mason, recommended routing a trail along the roadside perimeter rather than cutting through the meadow to preserve open-space character while still providing access. The council agreed to a brief field inspection immediately after adjournment and directed the design team to refine the concept based on feedback.

Next steps The design team will revise the concept plan to reflect council input and prepare updated drawings and cost estimates for future consideration.