Milford council agrees to accept historic Hickory Mine equipment for park display with conditions

The Milford City Council voted to accept donation of historic Hickory Mine equipment for display in the city historical park, with the mine responsible for moving the pieces, preparing a gravel base and installing a plaque describing the equipment and its use.

Staff reviewed photos and a requested 30-by-30-foot footprint for the display and said the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) requires the items be publicly displayed to preserve their history. The council agreed the historical park location was appropriate and approved the proposal after staff confirmed space and discussed potential leveling requirements. "If the council's not ready to make a decision, we can table this item and you guys can go down and walk in the park," staff said; the council moved forward instead.

The motion specified that the mine would provide the equipment and handle placement, that a gravel barrier should be installed to minimize weeds and provide a stable base, and that a memorial sign be erected to explain the artifacts to visitors. The motion carried on a voice vote. Council asked staff to contact Darren Malcus of Melford Mining to finalize arrangements.