Wellington North approves nearly $10,000 in grants for Walsh’s pharmacies
Arthur, Mount Forest projects will replace fluorescent lights with LED fixtures
KENILWORTH – Pharmacies in Arthur and Mount Forest are set to improve their lighting with a $9,229 boost from Wellington North.
The green energy grants include $5,000 for Walsh’s Pharmacy in Mount Forest and $4,229 for Walsh’s Pharmacy in Arthur.
The projects involve replacing outdated fluorescent lighting systems with modern LED flat-panel fixtures.
The green energy grants fall under Wellington North’s community improvement program.
Its goal, officials say, is to encourage property owners to:
- improve energy efficiency in existing commercial, industrial and institutional buildings;
- facilitate the installation of small-scale renewable energy systems; and
- promote active and sustainable transportation infrastructure such as bike racks, bike repair stations and electric vehicle charging stations.
“Walsh’s Pharmacy has been a long-standing and valued business in Wellington North for nearly 75 years,” states a March 9 report to council.
It was founded in Arthur in 1952 by John Walsh, and relocated to its current Arthur location, at Charles and George Streets, in 1955.
The lighting system has not been fully upgraded since the building’s construction that year, resulting in poor lighting quality, high energy use and increased maintenance, the report states.
“In 2014, the Walsh family expanded their operations with a second location in Mount Forest, further strengthening their presence and service to residents across the township,” it continues.
The lighting system there has not been upgraded since then, and relies entirely on fluorescent fixtures, which are inefficient and require special disposal due to mercury content.
The business is now into its third generation, with Joe and Cheryl Walsh operating both locations since 1992 and their son Nick joining the business in recent years.
“Walsh’s Pharmacy has been a cornerstone of health care and community service in Wellington North for generations,” the report states.
“This project will help ensure their facilities remain safe, efficient and environmentally responsible as they approach their 75th anniversary.”
