Councillors here would like a bit more patriotism when it comes to naming new streets in the town.
Council recently adopted a policy to encourage just that. However, some modifications were needed before approval was given.
Originally, the resolution stated that Minto considered it to be in the public interest to enact a policy entitled street names that would come into force when the town enters into subdivision agreements with developers for residential areas in the municipality. The policy originally suggested the town would approve only names for streets that use the names of those men and women from the Minto who fought in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War, and who paid the supreme sacrifice by losing their lives.
To that end a registry would be compiled by the clerk to alphabetically list the names, provided by Palmerston Legion Branch 409 and Harriston Legion Branch 296, of those men and women who fought and lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War.
However, councillor Rick Hembly asked what would happen if a developer wants to name a street after a veteran who is still alive.
“There are a number of well known vets who made it back and contributed to our community,” Hembly said.
Clerk Barb Wilson said the policy would be at council’s discretion.
The revised policy excluded the portion that included reference to “making the supreme sacrifice.”
Discussion also pointed out there are veterans from other conflicts and the final resolution passed by council ended up with the recognition of those who protected the county and ensuring its freedoms.
Minto is not alone in seeking to honour veterans by naming streets after them. Several municipalities in Wellington County have adopted that policy and work in cooperation with local Legion branches to ensure accuracy and to make sure noone is missed.
