T-L Photos/MIKE PALMER TIME appears to be ticking away for a Bethesda landmark to be in its present location. The town clock, which has been very visible to village residents for more than eight decades, is expected to be removed this year, and efforts are under way to obtain funding for a clock or bell tower to house it. Mayor Charles Lyons said the rare clock, which now honors Bethesda service personnel who were in World War I, could serve as a memorial for all veterans from the village. For additional photos view cu.timesleaderonline.com

REFERRING to the town clock in Bethesda as “an historical monument,” Mayor Charles Lyons said different avenues are being explored in regard to the landmark’s future.

“We have to do something before fall,” added Lyons. “I don’t think it will last through the winter.” He spoke of the need to start immediately on the process of removing it from the privately owned building on which it is located.

The mayor is hopeful a special memorial clock or bell tower, which would stand alone, can be built eventually to house the clock.

Lyons said he has been in touch with clock restorers and clock builders about the clock, which dates from 1925.

“They’re all excited — it’s so rare,” he added.

The mayor said that he talked to a representative of The Verdin Co., which has been in the clock business since 1842. According to Lyons, the representative was amazed that the Bethesda clock is still working.