LAURIE WEIR
A native plant garden will be installed in front of the new Portland Community Hall this spring, pending final council approval.
At the April 14 Municipal Services Committee meeting, Rideau Lakes councillors recommended pre-approving $4,565 plus tax for the landscaping work, to be completed by Rideau Roots. The funds would come from the 2025 capital budget, under a $100,000 allocation for furnishings and equipment not included in the original hall construction contract.
The new hall and library drawings did not include any exterior planting. The proposed garden will feature native species, with materials ordered in advance to ensure availability from the nursery.
In addition to the planting, council also supported the purchase and installation of a dedication plaque to recognize those who contributed to the design and construction of the facility. Steve Holmes, manager of facilities and parks, said he’s working with the architect on the modest plaque.
Coun. Sue Dunfield said they’re working with a $1,000 pre-approved budget for the grand opening of the hall, and she’s hoping the plaque will be part of that budget. “It’s not going to be a bronze plaque,” she said, as they’re looking at a walnut plaque to hang inside the hall, “to complement the architect’s design, who has offered to help with the design.”
Final grading, topsoil and seeding will soon to be done, Holmes noted.
Coun. Marcia Maxwell noted that this is another item she’s not prepared to support as the budget has not been finalized. She asked for a recorded vote, which passed 6-2. Coun. Ron Pollard, and Maxwell voted against it.
The recommendation now heads to council for formal approval.
