Board approves 'Rally Around the Flags' monument and allocates lottery and constituent funds

The Gila County Board of Supervisors on May 19 approved a construction contract for the "Rally Around the Flags" monument at the Tommy Kline Martin complex in Payson, a project that will install nine flagpoles, reinforced foundations, lighting, electrical infrastructure and site improvements.

Project presenter Joseph said the full vision cost was roughly $333,500 and a reduced baseline would be about $272,325.18. "We're looking anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks for that lead time," Joseph said of construction timing, and he noted the intent to aim for a July 4 opening if lead times permit. Veterans who spoke during public comment urged approval: "My name is Gary Morris... I'm in support of the proposal for this monument," one veteran told the board.

Funding discussion centered on avoiding use of the general fund. Chairman Christiansen offered to commit $33,000 from his constituent funds and to purchase two complete sets of flags. County staff identified lottery reserves and LATCF/COVID-related funds as possible non-general-fund sources. Supervisor Klein said he favored seeking grants or other non-general-fund sources and recommended not spending general-fund dollars amid other county fiscal pressures.

Supervisor Klein moved the contract as a partially funded plan with $272,325.18 from the county lottery fund and the remainder from Chairman Christiansen's constituent funds; the motion passed unanimously. The contract maximum listed was $333,546.98, with the board noting options to scale the project back if desired.

Supporters said the site would include accessible sidewalks, signage and interpretive displays in the civic area; staff said some design elements would be removed in the reduced-scope option. The board discussed maintenance and the plan for higher-quality poles and interior lanyards chosen for durability.