City of Florence Cries Out for Help - Part I

First in a series on current Florence problems presented from different viewpoints:

City of Florence residents are tired of playing mind games:

I am often reminded of that old Hank Jr. song; this ain't Dallas and this ain't Dynasty. This is a real-life two job working family. And I ain't J.R. You ain't Suellen. We're just a man and a woman holding things together.

I am afraid that the City of Florence Mayor and Council believe that life really is like a soap opera.

We've all heard about the possibility of the Lauderdale County Confederate Monument being moved to Soldier's Rest, in the City of Florence Cemetery. What has failed to have been mentioned is that, if that were to happen, it would be a direct violation of a city ordinance.

Section 6-9 - Removal of offensive monuments, etc.
If any monument, effigy or enclosure, or any structure placed in, or upon any lot in any city cemetery shall be determined to be offensive or improper, such monument or structure shall be removed by the owner thereof upon notice by the sexton.

Several people, with very good intentions, have offered-up compromises to the cemetery; Veteran's Museum at Veteran's Park, near the Splash Pad overlooking the Tennessee River, and most recently Pope's Tavern.

I find it very curious that individuals who desperately want the monument moved would be so intolerant to suggestions other than their own.

The monument will only be moved if it is deemed to be too offensive to remain at it's current location. By moving it to Soldiers Rest the city will be given the right to take ownership of the monument and legally have the right to remove it permanently within hours of it's arrival to the cemetery.

Why has the City of Florence been advocating an idea that goes against it's own code?

Could it be the same reason the city has ignored ordinance section 2-9?

Sec. 2-9. - City historian.
(a)The historical heritage of the city is among its most valued and important assets and is of special value to the youth of the city as a constant reminder of the circumstances under which the city was born and nurtured. To further foster the understanding and preservation of our heritage, there is hereby created and established the position of city historian.(b)The city historian shall be appointed by the city council.(c)The city historian shall serve as an ex officio member of the city historical board.

Brian Murphy must be removed from the volunteer position of president of the city historical board. Simply put, he is not qualified for the position.

Signed,

Professor Astute