Board approves maintenance plan and forms working group to address water intrusion at Anthem Veterans Memorial

At its meeting, the Anthem Way Foundation Board approved a staff recommendation to have the Anthem Veterans Memorial professionally polished and sealed on a two- to three-year cycle and directed staff to convene a small working group to evaluate options for diverting water runoff from the memorial’s marble pillars.

Staff told the board that a small section of the memorial’s marble is separating from its backing because of water intrusion. Consultants recommended polishing and sealing the marble every 2–3 years (a full detail estimate approximately $16,000) versus the foundation’s current routine cleaning budget of about $2,600 per year. Staff said the $16,000 estimate also includes a small podium repair.

Board discussion weighed options to address runoff without dramatically changing the memorial’s obelisk aesthetic. Staff proposed capped stainless-steel lids with a drip edge (estimated near $1,000 for the fabricated caps) as a lower-profile solution; staff also flagged porcelain and the option of a larger overhanging stone, which would alter the memorial’s appearance.

Director Barbie questioned the recommended maintenance frequency and cost, noting the memorial had not been polished during the board member’s 4½-year experience and asking whether additional bids were needed. Staff replied they are obtaining a second quote and will chase down the frequency question before returning options to the board.

Director McKenzie moved to approve the polishing/sealing schedule and to direct staff to convene a small working group to study runoff options; Director Hartman seconded. The board voted and the motion passed. The board’s decision included direction for staff to collect additional vendor quotes and to present design and cost options to the board before any permanent alteration of the memorial.