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Area veterans involved in the repair and maintenance project underway at the All County Veterans Memorial on Highway 8 in Lindstrom are hoping to get the project back-on-track.  The snow fence work zone barrier has been in place for several weeks, and the elevated displays highlighting the various branches of service have stood stripped of their exterior decorative concrete far longer than planned.  Crews were spotted on-site for the first time in weeks early Tuesday. 

A legal hurdle delayed the work, explained Mick Campbell, who is part of the committee in charge of the replacement of the artificial stonework and other maintenance tasks needed at the 20 year old site. He reports that a district court order prohibited the expert cement worker from being on the job site.   

The situation was beyond what anybody could have anticipated. Due to where the plaintiff resides the protection order boundary includes the memorial, and if the contractor violates the court order he is in violation of the law. The judge was made aware of the predicament but initially declined to allow any exceptions. 

Campbell also explained the statue of liberty replica, lighting hardware and other parts of the memorial are being refurbished as well.  The goal is to have everything done before winter.

Any community members who would like to get involved in ongoing care of the memorial are also welcome to make contact.  Many of the original group of veterans involved in developing the site have passed on and this memorial was not meant to be a city responsibility.  A new set of helping hands would be invaluable.  Call the Press office at 651-257-5115 and leave your name and contact information or stop by the Press office during business hours.   We will make sure the veterans connect with you.

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