Leon Valley council approves $16,000 veterans memorial sign and bench, sends placement to park commission

The Leon Valley City Council on Dec. 2 approved a $16,000 monument-and-bench option for Veterans Memorial Park and asked staff to bring a placement diagram to the park commission for review.

Councilors and staff reviewed three concepts the park commission had considered — an amphitheater concept submitted by Walter Garrity, a taller monument proposal from Daniel Rodriguez and a smaller monument-with-benches option. City staff said the park commission had been unable to establish a quorum after several attempts, so the item was brought to council for direction. Staff noted the city had budgeted capital funds for the project, and one lower-cost option was estimated at about $16,000.

Councilor Orozco, who said she would champion the project, favored the $16,000 option and emphasized that the monument should "recognize every man and woman that has served our country." During public comment, resident veteran Blackmore said, "this city cannot afford this memorial," urging veterans groups to fundraise instead. Councilors replied they had explored outside fundraising but had not found a feasible external funding source and that the smaller option had already been included in the capital budget.

After discussing wording, dimensions and several potential placements near the flagpole and community center, Councilor Roscoe moved and Councilor Campos seconded a motion to develop the $16,000 sign plus a bench, prepare a placement diagram and take that option to the park commission in January. The mayor called the question and the motion carried.

Staff said if the park commission cannot reach a quorum in January, the item will return to council for final placement and any further adjustments.