Denton County Commissioners did what some thought might never happen Tuesday. They added the controversial topic of the Denton Confederate statue to their agenda.
Commissioners say they will appoint a committee to study the future of the statue, which is set near the square in Denton, as calls have grown louder recently to remove it.
A procession of citizens spent several hours at Tuesday's Commissioners Court meeting making their respective points, both for and against removal. Many speakers said they had ancestors who fought for the Confederacy.
"This holds the South back," said Whittner Dietrich, of Shady Shores, who said his great-great-great grandfather was a Confederate soldier. "It will continue to hold the South back until we resolve this."
Cynthia Koiner-Damph, of Sanger, also had ancestors who went to battle for the South. She said the statue is a tribute to those who fought and died.
"I'm proud of my history," she said. "I'm proud of our history."
Critics say the Confederate monument is a symbol of an ugly American past — of slavery and racism. But supporters of keeping the statue where it is say it's a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives and should remain a part of North Texas history.
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The monument is on both the state and federal historic registry, meaning any changes would need approval of the Texas Historical Commission.
Denton County Judge Mary Horn said previously she didn't plan to put the statue issue on the commissioners' agenda. However, Tuesday, she told constituents she'd like the committee to also study a plaque near the monument, which she called "woefully inadequate."
"I'm not looking for flowery words to pacify anyone or make anybody feel better," Horn said. "I want historically accurate content."
Horn said the Confederate statue panel will consist of citizens, not lawmakers.
Commissioners ended Tuesday's meeting saying they would like more input before making a decision on Confederate symbols.
