Is our fountain history?

To the Editor,

     An Express article on Sept. 13, 2017 shared that Anamosa and Monticello are now a part of the Grant Wood Loop/Grant Wood Mississippi River Region’s Hometown Pride Initiative (HPI). This was followed on Sept. 20, 2017 with an interesting article regarding the Jones County Economic Development release of a new marketing video to attract businesses to relocate or begin in Jones County. We applaud these efforts along with many who are proud of our small-town offerings and advantages.

     Both the videos from the Jones County Economic Development (JCED) and the Express article have beautiful photos of our interesting communities, covering both the sights, activities and business support. Interviews with locals enhance the draw for considering moving to Jones County. These appeal to both businesses and families. Well done! (To view the videos, visit the JCED’s website: https://jonescountydevelopment.com.)

     There is one minor glitch, however. Both videos and the Express article include a gorgeous shot of our fountain operating amidst the flower gardens with the Monticello sign welcoming all who enter our community by the south entrance.

     There’s the problem: our beautiful fountain has been “sleeping”/inactive for the first time this summer. We’ve been told this is due to leakage “too costly to fix.” There have been some proposals to modify or eliminate it altogether. When our city manager was asked recently what is being planned, he replied, “We are waiting for community feedback.” Thus, this editorial.

     With all the creativity and resources in our community, can’t we implement a solution? It’s sad to pass that landmark remembering it’s former beauty, the appealing sight and sounds it offered us.

     Are there grants for our Hometown Pride Initiative that would help with the costly repairs? Have bids been offered to repair the plumbing? Could a flexible membrane be used to re-line the fountain?

     As members of the Federated Garden Club of Monticello, we would like to see a solution that would restore the fountain to its former glory. We will continue to plant and maintain the flower gardens that flank the fountain and offer beauty to all who come to and live in Monticello. If you have some good ideas about the fountain, contact City Manager Doug Herman at City Hall: 319-465-6435.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Schneiderman

On behalf of the Garden Club members