Council weighs restoring downtown 'ducks' or commissioning reproductions amid high cost and uncertainty

Council members heard a multi-part presentation about two downtown 'duck' sculptures and debated whether to restore, protect, reproduce or retire them.

Staff relayed consultants’ advice that full restoration of the main outdoor sculpture could run roughly $45,000–$50,000 and that the Lion’s sculpture would be closer to $32,000. Consultants cautioned the public-facing assessment cannot reveal internal damage until conservators remove exterior material, so restoration carries uncertainty and may only extend the sculpture’s life a limited number of years without additional work on the internal structure.

Several council members and community speakers urged protection measures that would preserve public visibility — for example, building a gazebo-like shelter — while others argued for reproduction of the sculpture so the original could be moved to a secure setting or retired. One council member said the downtown sculpture had been replaced once before and questioned investing heavily if the piece is itself a reproduction.

Staff noted roughly $20,000 currently identified in grants and private donations related to these projects but said existing funds would not cover full restoration costs. The Lions Club has previously committed to conservation work for a separate sculpture and the council discussed prioritizing the fundable project (the Lions’ sculpture) because it appears more salvageable.

Council directed staff to prepare outreach materials and a short community survey to gauge public appetite for restoration versus reproduction and to provide donors and stakeholders with a status update. Staff also recommended minimal interim safety steps — fencing or temporary covers — while the council pursues more detailed cost options and fundraising.