HEALDSBURG — City council spent Tuesday evening debating whether a proposed $2.3 million plaza fountain upgrade is “too fancy for ducks,” a phrase that appeared in public comment seventeen times.

The design includes LED rings, synchronized jets, and a filtration system marketed as “museum-grade.” Supporters say downtown deserves a centerpiece that photographs well. Opponents, including several ducks who could not speak but were represented, prefer “honest water.”

Biologist guest speaker Dr. Amy Kent testified that waterfowl adapt but “do not need a light show.” Realtor groups countered that property values respond to aesthetics, not “avian minimalism.”

Mayor Pauline Ruiz attempted compromise: fancy fountain by day, simple pool mode at dusk. Engineers said the modes are possible but “the ducks won’t know which shift they’re on.”

Council tabled the vote until a duck-impact study returns. Meanwhile, existing fountain water remains on, modest, and heavily photographed.