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Pastor reads statement urging city action on deteriorating Confederate statue on public land
Summary
A public commenter, via Pastor Dwayne Mabry, asked the council to address a privately owned Confederate statue that sits on public land and is in a deteriorated, potentially dangerous condition; the statement said Virginia law allows localities to remove unsafe structures and recover costs if owners fail to act.
A statement delivered to the council on Jan. 27 urged Bristol City to address a deteriorating Confederate statue that, while privately owned, sits on public land and may pose a public‑safety risk.
Rev. Jackie Nophlin had signed up to speak but was unable to remain; Pastor Dwayne Mabry of Lee Street Baptist Church read her prepared statement during the public comment period. The statement said the statue’s condition is unsafe and asserted that Virginia law permits localities to remove unsafe structures and recover costs from owners if the owner does not take action. The speaker asked the city to exercise its authority to ensure public safety.
Council did not take immediate action on the item during the meeting; the statement noted legal authority but did not specify a particular code section or request a specific staff directive at the time.
