ITEM TITLE:
Consider directing staff to review the current approval and siting process of memorials and tributes such as statues, monuments, pavilions, gardens, fountains, trees, etc. and to develop a formal process for the endorsement and siting of future requests per the Council’s direction
INITIATOR: Jeffery Temple, Parks & Recreation Director
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: Keith Neitzke, Parks Superintendent
BACKGROUND: The City of Lawton has several memorials and tributes in various parks and open areas such as those for the various wars, special interest tributes or a tribute to a loved one. These are very respectful ways to recognize and remember important people and events throughout history. Memorials and tributes are found in many of our City parks such as the Korean War Memorial and the Vietnam Memorial which are sited in Elmer Thomas park. However, these have been approved over many years on an individual basis with no master plan or without the siting being considered in relation to future requests. Staff would like to establish a proper procedure for applications and/or requests for future memorial projects and to recommend options for a dedicated area for future requests. Intent is to determine the most effective way to honor and respect each memorial as well as the best siting.
EXHIBIT: None
KEY ISSUES: None
FUNDING SOURCE: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Direct staff to initiate the development of a formal process for the endorsement and possible siting of future memorial & tribute requests per the Council’s direction to present for Council approval