Rocky Mount Gives OK For MLK Statue Negotiations

The city of Rocky Mount is one step closer to replacing a controversial statue of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

City Council members authorized city staff members to negotiate a final contract with British sculptor Steven Whyte.

Whyte offered to pay the city $55,000 for the old sculpture and then charge $140,000 for a new, taller version, for a net cost of $85,000.

Whyte plans to unveil his statue Jan. 16, 2006, Martin Luthur King Jr. Day.