Commission approves donated bench honoring longtime volunteer 'Scotty'

The Dixon City Parks and Recreation Commission voted to accept a donated bench and plaque honoring community volunteer Scotty Stacy at the Women's Improvement Club Park.

Public Works Director Lauren Coteau told commissioners the donation request was submitted by Dixon resident Kimberly Hicks and that the donor would cover the bench and plaque costs. Coteau said the bench is an exposed-aggregate style that staff located to closely match existing park seating and that "they are completely covering the cost — it is approximately $2,200." Coteau also corrected a name on the staff report, noting the honoree's last name is Stacy, not Stanley.

Kimberly Hicks described Scotty's long service escorting children across a downtown crosswalk and the community support for the memorial. "He's walked my kids across the street," Hicks said, noting volunteers and online donors raised nearly $3,000 quickly and that the plaque itself was donated.

Commissioners discussed site placement, including moving an existing bench to the library and placing the donated bench where Scotty commonly sat near the rose wall. Staff said a site visit would determine whether a new concrete pad is needed or the existing bench can be relocated.

A commissioner moved to approve the donation, a colleague seconded, and the motion carried. Staff will install the bench and plaque per the approved plan and coordinate any required site work.

The commission's action followed the city's donation policy, which delegates approval to staff or to the commission depending on gift value and type; the policy and gift catalog are included in the staff packet.