Commissioner Watts: Why Build a Box Around the Monument

Caddo Commissioner Stormy Gage Watts talks about the plan to construct a box around the Confederate monument at the Parish Courthouse, the overwhelming Commission vote in favor and the reasons for the temporary delay.

In a special Commission meeting earlier this week, the Commission voted 11-1 to build a box around the Confederate Monument that sits outside the Caddo Courthouse.

Under the original plan, the wooden box was to have been completed at the end of this week. But on Thursday, the Commission announced that the construction of the box will begin early next week because of the need for further engineering design.

"Out of an abundance of caution and for the public safety of those who may be near the proposed protective structure at the courthouse after its completion, we have consulted with a structural engineer who has advised that further engineering design is needed. This additional design will temporarily delay the start of construction on the structure.

Construction is anticipated to begin early next after the engineering design is completed. The Parish’s priority is to complete the project in the safest and most efficient manner possible."

And the former Commission President explains the purpose of the construction was to avoid possible trouble at any further downtown protests. "We collectively decided, out of an abundance of caution, due to recent protests, to avoid a potential catastrophic event. We decided to create something temporary...around the monument."

And Watts says she sees no compromise with the United Daughters of the Confederacy in the near future. "I would like them to think about (their) ancestors and the things that they are fighting for means so much to them, I'd think they would want you to do the right thing to ease tensions. You should do the right thing and come get your property."