Veterans group seeks volunteer repair of Downeyville memorial; board to form ad hoc committee

Frank Lang, representing the Sierra County Veterans Group, asked the board for permission to repair and rehabilitate the Downeyville Veterans Memorial at the base of the Bell Tower. Lang described a non-functioning leaking drinking fountain held with rusted vice grips, fractured plaques, and loose rock wall sections. He said the project would use volunteer labor and donated materials, would not request county funding and would include a hold-harmless agreement.

Lang said the Downeyville Public Utility District has approved removing the leaking fountain. He proposed a new cast aluminum banner and rock work, and hoped the work could be completed by Veterans Day 2025.

Because the matter was not on the meeting agenda, the board limited discussion but agreed to form an ad hoc committee to vet issues, consult county counsel on volunteer labor and hold-harmless language, and return recommendations at the next board meeting. The chair and at least one supervisor were assigned to the ad hoc committee, which the board expected to meet and report back within about two weeks.