Commissioners ask for site details as Fort Hays State artists propose courthouse sculpture

Fort Hays State University sculpture professor Tobias Flores and Dr. Jeanne Sumrall met with the Pawnee County commissioners to present a proposed public sculpture and discuss potential courthouse placement. Flores said the proposed work has been reduced in size because of wind concerns and offered to leave a rendering and tour the courthouse lawn so commissioners could evaluate siting options.

Commissioner Rein and Commissioner Miller both said they were not opposed to the project but had reservations about placing any new work on the front lawn. Rein pointed to existing items near the steps — a Statue of Liberty replica, a Christmas tree dedicated to a former commissioner, and seasonal lights — and suggested the northwest corner of the courthouse on Main Street as a possible alternative location. Commissioners asked the presenters to provide a photo or rendering and to inspect potential sites before taking any formal action.