Kent – Kent Council Highlights from the meeting held on September 11, 2023:
Fir Road Remediation and Traffic Control
Councillor Post brought forward a recommendation from the Kent Agricultural Committee, requesting that Council look into improvements for Fir Road. The current condition of the road is described as “poor” and there are concerns that if the road is repaired, it would lead to other traffic issues such as speeding or impeding agricultural equipment working in the area.
Council agreed that it is a complex issue and approved the recommendation to have staff examine traffic control techniques for Fir Road, if and when the remediation occurs.
Agassiz-Harrison Museum and Visitor Centre Rail Caboose Update
Councillor Schwichtenberg provided an update on the restoration of the caboose at the Agassiz-Harrison Museum and Visitor Centre. The caboose has now been repainted and adorned with the official logo and colours. The project was entirely funded with the money raised from the Museum Fundraising Committee and the next phase is to upgrade/restore the interior of the caboose. Councillor Schwichtenberg specifically thanked TYCROP Manufacturing Ltd. for donating the paint and their head painter, Mr. Jason O’Brien, for providing the labour and expertise.
She also encouraged residents to continue to buy meat raffle tickets and support other fundraising events, as there are more projects on the horizon that require funding. You can view past and future fundraisers on the Agassiz-Harrison Museum and Visitor Centre website: https://agassizharrisonmuseum.org/events/
Kilby Heritage Site Improvements
Councillor Watchorn noted in his report that the Kilby Historical Society has made significant improvements to their site. He mentioned the new post and beam picnic structure, a gravel pathway from the campground to the picnic area, and signage that increases awareness of the wildlife and natural features of the area. Councillor Watchorn said that during his visit on September 3rd, Kilby was the busiest he’s ever seen and congratulates them on their efforts to increase the number of visitors and improve the experience for everyone.
For more information on the Kilby Historical Site or to plan your next visit, check out their website at: https://kilby.ca/.
Schep Park Playground Resurfacing Update
Mayor Pranger provided an update on the resurfacing project for the Schep Park playground. She noted that the surface has been levelled and packed, with the Canadian Tire Stewardship mats ready to be placed. These rubberized mats will make the playground safer and more accessible for all children. Mayor Pranger also wanted to clarify that while the playground is still scheduled to be closed until October, the park itself is still open and that kids are still welcome to play in the greenspace and the sports court.
Kent-Harrison Senior Social Centre Society Grant Application
In an email sent to Council on September 5, 2023, the Kent-Harrison Senior Social Centre Society requested District support for their application to the New Horizons for Seniors Program grant. “The community-based stream of the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) is a federal grant that supports community-based projects that are designed by seniors for seniors. This program funds projects that empower seniors in their communities and contribute to improving their health and well-being.” – www.canada.ca
Council agreed to support the society’s application and noted that Friendship House, one of their main programs, is an integral part of the community. Mayor Pranger also cited that the cooling centre that Friendship House has hosted during recent heatwaves is an example of their partnership with the District.
You can visit the Friendship House Facebook page for more information on the programs they offer: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083134610175
