WHITEWATER REGION — Staff was directed to proceed with the necessary actions to assume the lands for park purposes and proceed with public consultation on parkette programming and commemorative naming last night. Jordan Durocher, manager of Parks and Recreation, made a presentation to the Council of the Township of Whitewater Region.
He said they should receive the recommended programming for the new parkette in Westmeath on the proposed donated land at the corner of Rapid and Gore. A public consultation on the parkette concept plan will be set and announced by the Township. The motion passed, being moved by Councillor Charlene Jackson and seconded by Councillor Dave Mackay.
“A previous information report went to Council with direction to staff to take the necessary steps to receive the donated land for park purposes and have the park commemoratively named as the Boyer dit Laderoute Park,” said Mr. Durocher. “Direction at the meeting included confirming a use for the park prior to proceeding.”
Staff felt there was value in obtaining the parcel for the purposes of introducing a parkette to the Westmeath area at this prominent corner. The Recreation Master Plan was referenced, as it recommends a park be within walking distance of all population centres. “The park across from the Westmeath Arena currently contains a ball diamond and the cenotaph,” said Mr. Durocher.
The current cenotaph located on Synton Street, next to the ball diamond is in need of maintenance. Council agreed the relocation of the cenotaph to Rapid Road would be a positive. It would allow for a leisure setting of shade and green space, while offering cenotaph features to host commemorative days and celebrations. “The space to be vacated next to the ball diamond can then be used for other programming,” said Mr. Durocher. In discussions with the Tour de Whitewater chair, it would also be the ideal location for a rest station.
According to Mr. Durocher, the total cost for the parkette project including construction, fencing and landscaping would be approximately $130,000. The parkette land is being donated with the Township responsible for advertising costs through their budgeted block ad with a budget of $1,500 to $2,500 and for public consultation, land appraisal and legal with a budget of $1,500 to $2,000 to complete the transaction.
Dr. Marian Laderoute reached out to the Township relating to the possibility of donating a parcel located on the north-east side of the intersection of Gore Line and Rapid Road. A letter from Dr. Laderoute dated January 16, offered the donation of land in exchange of an official donation receipt. The letter also provides background information relating to the Boyer dit Laderoute family.
The report was prepared by Mr. Durocher; was reviewed by the Planner and Economic Development Officer, Ivan Burton; and was approved by the Chief Administrative Officer, Robert Tremblay.
