Volunteers to patch downtown ‘duck’ statue; council weighs short-term fixes and long-term base work

Councilors and volunteers discussed short-term measures to stabilize and preserve a downtown duck statue and the surrounding park area while fundraising and planning continue for a long-term fix.

Volunteers expect to patch and repaint panels and apply short-term drainage repairs to slow deterioration. One volunteer suggested temporary measures such as creating drainage holes in the statue base and filling them after drainage to reduce standing water, and spray-foaming visible cracks to keep the elements out over the winter.

Council members noted donated funds are available but not sufficient for a full base reconstruction; fundraising and possible collaboration with the chamber and fire department were discussed. Several participants flagged ancillary needs in the park — the path leading to the duck, lighting upgrades, and the possibility of a shelter or cover to protect the statue — and suggested combining efforts across departments and community groups for cost-sharing.

No formal appropriation was made at the meeting. Councilors asked staff to coordinate minor park repairs that are within the city’s maintenance remit and to continue fundraising and design work for a permanent base reconstruction that would require heavy equipment and contractor mobilization.