Wellington North creates policy for memorial benches, trees
KENILWORTH – Township officials say a new policy should increase clarity, transparency and consistency around memorial benches and trees in Wellington North.
People looking to sponsor a public memorial with a plaque can pay $3,000 to install a memorial bench or $1,000 to plant a memorial tree. The price includes installation, plaque and inscription.
Council approved the new policy on May 4.
Previously, when the township received requests for benches or trees in public spaces to commemorate loved ones, approvals, installation locations and ongoing maintenance were sometimes inconsistent due to a lack of policy, according to a township report.
Councillor Sherry Burke said she was “happy to see [the policy] because there are a lot of folks that would like to participate in these types of programs.”
Mayor Andy Lennox stressed the importance of a clear policy to help guide people through a decision often made during particularly challenging times in their lives.
“The policy establishes parameters for purchases of memorial benches and trees, outlines the approval process, and ensures that all installations are appropriate, sustainable and integrated into municipal operations,” the report states.
The policy outlines:
– eligibility and scope: purchases are limited to monetary contributions for benches or trees on municipal property;
– approval process: all requests must be submitted in writing and approved by municipal staff to ensure suitability of location, species selection for trees and compliance with municipal standards;
– purchase and installation: all purchasing, installation and planting will be done by the township;
– maintenance and sustainability: the township will assume ongoing maintenance responsibilities for approved benches and trees, ensuring long-term sustainability and avoiding future liabilities; and
– flexibility for updates: staff are authorized to update and manage the policy over time to accommodate changes in municipal priorities or operational needs without requiring council approval for minor revisions.
On parks and trails, people can dedicate black, red or sugar maples, blue spruce, cork trees or common hackberry. In the cemetery they can dedicate autumn blaze, sugar maples or red maples.
According to township staff, “The policy provides a clear, fair and efficient framework for residents and organizations to honour loved ones while contributing to public amenities in a way that aligns with municipal standards.
“Endorsing the policy demonstrates council’s commitment to community engagement, sustainability, and orderly management of municipal assets.”
Township clerk Karren Wallace said anyone with questions about the policy or the process for dedicating a bench or tree could contact her at 519-848-3620 extension 4227 or at kwallace@wellington-north.com.
