Watsonville Polls Community On Removing George Washington Statue

WASTONVILLE, CA — In an unexpected turn of events, George Washington's future is in question — at least in the case of a bust bearing the founding father's resemblance in Watsonville.

After community demonstrations both showing support for preserving the bust and calling for its removal, the City of Watsonville is looking to collect community data that could help determine the bust's future.

One way the city looks to collect data is through an online survey that will remain open to the public through Sept. 30. The survey polls takers on their thoughts about the bust.

The city said it will also host a series of town hall meetings in October to collect public input that will be shared with the Parks and Recreation Commission on Nov. 2.

The city's survey collects personal information to help avoid duplicate responses and identify which responses come from residents compared to non-residents. Collected information will remain confidential.

The bust was funded in 1999 by a $100,000 donation from the estate of Lloyd F. Alaga. Another $200,000 from Alaga's estate was used to acquire library reference works.

The bust was created by artist Michelle Armitage and unveiled in 2001, the city said.