The applicant is requesting approval to install a 2' by 3' freestanding historical marker in the southeast quadrant of Johnson Square to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette's visit to Savannah from March 19-21, 1825. The proposed marker is part of the larger Lafayette Trail marker program across the United States. The proposed marker is to read as follows:

ON MARCH 19, 1825, GENERAL

LAFAYETTE ARRIVED IN SAVANNAH.

ESCORTED HERE ON MARCH 21, HE

LAID THE CORNERSTONE FOR THE

NATHANAEL GREENE MONUMENT.

Funding & Escrow Payment: The applicant has confirmed that the marker is being funded by the Pomeroy Foundation and the escrow fees would be paid by the applicant (File No. 24-002613-HM).

The Historic Site and Monument Commission recommends denial to the Savannah City Council to install a freestanding historical marker located in Johnson Square, because the proposed work does not meet the Master Plan and Guidelines.

Background: MPC Staff recommended approval of the historical marker as requested because the project meets the standards of the Master Plan and Guidelines. HSMC recommended denial expressing concerns regarding color scheme, overcrowding in Johnson Square, and lack of information on the proposed sign. Following HSMC's denial recommendation, an additional MPC staff review found the location within Johnson Square is appropriate and meets the standards; while there is a square named Lafayette, there is not a historical marker like the one proposed already in existence; and while the marker deviates from the size and style typically allowed it is part of a consistent national program throughout the country.

The Mayor and Aldermen may take one of the following actions:

1. Approve the request of the American Friends of Lafayette to install the proposed historical marker sign in Johnson Square;
2. Approve the request with modifications; or
3. Deny the request to install the proposed sign.