The Christopher Columbus bust in front of the North Main Street municipal center will remain following party-line Town Council votes Monday night. The six council Republicans defeated motions supported by the three Democrats to take down the statue, as well as a proposal to form a committee to determine its future.

Democrats asked that Republicans support the formation of a group of town leaders and members to find a solution to contention over the Columbus statue. Chris Poulos, a Democrat, said the committee could help find “a united path forward for Southington,” concerning the bust.