Public Safety Memorial concept, design to be presented to commissioners

Members of the Onslow County Board of Commissioners will get a look at the proposed design of a Public Safety Memorial during the regular meeting this week.

 The board approved in May 2010 establishment of a tax-deductible fund for donations to build the memorial to fallen first responders. Public Safety Memorial Commission members are now requesting that board members approve the design and selection criteria for the memorial.

The memorial is to be built on a two-acre strip of land on U.S. 258 at the entrance to Burton Industrial Park adjacent to Tar Landing Baptist Church. An agreement with the church allows for construction of a parking lot at no cost to taxpayers.

The memorial concept, “Reflected in Our Eyes,” is meant to memorialize those who gave their lives to public safety in service to Onslow County citizens by symbolizing their absence, according to information provided by Onslow County administration.

According to the design description, a curved polished stainless steel wall is to be pierced by three intricately shaped openings with each opening as an outline of a public safety provider in full gear: emergency medical services, law enforcement and fire and rescue.

 “Visitors become part of the memorial in a direct way as they see themselves reflected side-by-side with the empty spaces left by the missing,” the proposal states.

The cost for the memorial is estimated at $75,000 not including the sculpture foundation, walkways and paving, lighting, seating and flagpoles.

In addition to the memorial presentation, several retired county employees will be recognized for their contributions, according to the agenda.

The meeting will be held Monday at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers at Jacksonville City Hall, located at 815 New Bridge St.