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Culpeper to give courthouse lawn a makeover

Culpeper supervisors agree to upgrade courthouse lawn.

By DONNIE JOHNSTON

Date published: 12/6/2006

The Culpeper County Courthouse lawn will get its first real face-lift in almost 100 years.

The Board of Supervisors voted yesterday to proceed with a makeover estimated to cost $216,000. Since no public funds were appropriated, most of the renovation costs will come from public donations. Work will proceed as the money comes in.

County Environmental Services Director P.J. Howard yesterday unveiled the new plan, which includes a canopied stage for lawn concerts.

"We're trying to enhance this property for those who want to use it," said board Chairman John Coates.

The plan, which includes the cutting of four trees, was not adopted without controversy.

"What's wrong with the way it is?" asked Supervisor Bill Chase. "Why are we spending all this money?"

Vice Chairman Steve Nixon, who chairs the Buildings and Grounds Committee, told Chase that "there are concerns about the layout and seating arrangements for concerts."

"I go to concerts there and see no problem," replied Chase, who added, "I feel this is the wrong time for us to spend $216,000."

Coates said that, except for the cost of cutting trees and the $16,000 the county paid to have a master plan drawn, officials hope private funds will cover the rest of the cost.

Chase also was not thrilled with the tree-cutting proposal. He had no problem with removing two large diseased maples on the west side of the courthouse, but took exception to taking down a holly behind the present wooden stage.

"I see no reason to remove that tree right now," Chase said. "You don't want to cut down a holly tree at Christmas time."

Supervisor Larry Aylor said it would be cheaper to cut all the trees at once.

"I give up," Chase replied. "Cut the whole doggone thing down!"

Under the new plan, the stage area will be on the north side of the courthouse lawn near where the Sheriff's Office cars are now parked off Cameron Street.

An oval brick walkway would replace two concrete walks. Flagpoles and shrubbery also would be added.

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Date published: 12/6/2006