WOLD: Relieved at Unanimous Historic District Commission Vote Rejecting Bush Statue in Veterans Park Plaza

Submitted by David C. Wold, Greenwich

I would like to express my delight at the Greenwich Historic District Commission’s unanimous 5-0 vote Wednesday night night against the proposal to install an illuminated statue of President George H.W. Bush and a new illuminated water fountain in the small park at the corner of Greenwich Ave and Arch Street, known as Veterans Park Plaza, War One Plaza or US Post Office Plaza.

The HDC plays an advisory  role to Planning & Zoning, so it is my hope the P&Z commission will take into consideration that the application made by First Selectman Fred Camillo and Tina Awad follow the ‘right procedure’ as Mr. Camillo stated at a recent Board of Selectmen meeting.

Attending the meeting, I was intrigued by the comments and suggestions the Commission members gave including, Why not have the gift of the statue (not sure whether the water fountain is included in the gift or not) placed in front of the Senior Center (former Town Hall) at 299 Greenwich Ave as a reminder of President Bush’s civil service, or locate the statue of him standing behind WWII/Korea and Vietnam Monument (in front of the Havemeyere building) – as clearly in their sacrifice for this country most have inspired him (and his family), as a survivor to do great things for others.

There was also the suggestion why not have him installed sitting on a bench by the dedicated WWI Monument looking at the Monument, as their service to this country must have inspired him.

I had the feeling that many of the members felt grateful for the gift, but could not see why his service to this country should be placed there, and in a way it could (with its flood light) and 9ft tall wall ‘cast a shadow’ on the in inscription: “In honor of the men and women of Greenwich who served the World War.”

There was nothing in the application by Fred Camillo and Tina Awad of Conte & Conte Architects (who has not attended the two meetings) about installation of lights on the Obelisk or the former Post Office flag pole, as mentioned in public forums by First Selectman over the last few years, as this project seems to have taken priority.

Again, I appreciate the HDC’s firm and clear recommendation against this plan by voting anonymous against it Wednesday night.

David C. Wold