ERPD Asks For Public’s Help In Funding Bronze Sculpture | Elk River Star News

ERPD asks for public’s help in funding bronze sculpture | Elk River Star News | hometownsource.com

2022-07-23 02:56:06 By : Mr. Guote China

Life-size statue called ‘The Protector, which will depict an actual Elk River police officer, OK’d at Dec. 6 council meeting

The Elk River Police Department is asking for the public’s help to fund a life-size bronze sculpture to be placed at the entrance of ERPD. Standing more than six-feet tall, “The Protector” features a police officer holding the hand of a small child, symbolic to both law enforcement agencies, and the community members they serve in very different ways.

“Protectors, that is exactly what we are as officers of the law. This statue will showcase the commitment of protecting the innocent, while also recognizing the inherent risks the men and women who serve Elk River take each day by putting on this uniform,” said ERPD Chief Ron Nierenhausen.

The statue, which will cost $50,000, will depict an actual Elk River officer, meticulously customized to include unique details of ERPD’s uniform, patches, badges, equipment, belt, etc.

A secure online donation fund has been set up through the city’s website at https://www.elkrivermn.gov/229/Police with 100% of the proceeds going toward financing this monument.

Larger donors (corporate or private citizens) of $5,000 or more will be recognized on a nearby plaque.

Nierenhausen hopes to have funds raised by spring 2022 in order to begin the six-month sculpting/customization process.

The Elk River City Council approved the city-managed fundraising project for the law enforcement monument at its Dec. 6 meeting.

•Mayor John Dietz swore in two new police officers, Grace O’Konek and Jason Michaud.

•Approved a union contract with LELS #271, police sergeants.

•Hired park maintenance workers Tim Gallagher and Kyle Murphy.

•Appointed Kelly Voss to the Library Board and reappointed Carol Boelter, both to three-year terms.

•Approved the 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan.

•Accepted donations from The Carlson Family Lightshield Foundation for a downtown dock and Zimmerman Fire Relief Association for Parks and Recreation equipment.

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