By Associated Press - Monday, April 17, 2017

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) - The Charlottesville City Council has decided to sell the statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee in its downtown park.

Media outlets report that the council voted 3-2 Monday to sell the statue. If it doesn’t sell, the council will consider donating it.

The council voted 3-2 earlier this year for its removal. Councilor Wes Bellamy called for the removal of the statue in March 2016, citing residents who feel it is culturally offensive and a symbol of white supremacy.

A community panel last fall suggested that the statue be moved from Lee Park to McIntire Park. Two councilors, however, said Friday that they were disinclined to that option.

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