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The Commemorative Tree and Bench Program was put on hold so that the Town could gather feedback from residents and update its Policy to ensure the long-term success of the Program. A public survey was conducted in the Fall of 2022 and staff provided a recommendation report and updated policy approved by Town Council on April 29, 2024.
The Program is now accepting applications. Please visit https://www.whitby.ca/en/play/commemorative-tree-and-bench-program.aspx for more information on how to apply.
Engagement Summary
A survey conducted by the Town was opened to the public between October 13 to October 28, 2022, seeking out opinions and preferences on a range of proposed changes including those listed below for the Commemorative Tree and Bench Program. Many residents responded and we thank all those who voiced their opinions to help reshape the Program. The public feedback gathered through the survey helped to inform the Staff Report and updated Policy provided to Committee, resulting in Council approval of the proposed changes to the Program on April 29, 2024.
Summary of survey responses related to the proposed changes to the Program:
• 86% of respondents were in support of the Town adding a memorial art installation at the waterfront (ex., a dedication wall), which could house numerous plaques and provide a place of remembrance for residents from across the community.
• 57% of respondents preferred the continued use of plaques on concrete pillars for tree dedications.
• 89% of respondents had no concerns with the proposed change to stainless steel plaques on backrests of benches instead of bronze plaque installed on a concrete pillar underneath.
• 61% of respondents had concerns with the proposed changes to limit plaque replacements from vandalism to 1 year and 2 years for replacement due to damage or maintenance needs.
• 66% of respondents were supportive of at least some percentage of the Program’s fees being subsidized by tax dollars.
The Commemorative Tree and Bench Program was put on hold so that the Town could gather feedback from residents and update its Policy to ensure the long-term success of the Program. A public survey was conducted in the Fall of 2022 and staff provided a recommendation report and updated policy approved by Town Council on April 29, 2024.
The Program is now accepting applications. Please visit https://www.whitby.ca/en/play/commemorative-tree-and-bench-program.aspx for more information on how to apply.
Engagement Summary
A survey conducted by the Town was opened to the public between October 13 to October 28, 2022, seeking out opinions and preferences on a range of proposed changes including those listed below for the Commemorative Tree and Bench Program. Many residents responded and we thank all those who voiced their opinions to help reshape the Program. The public feedback gathered through the survey helped to inform the Staff Report and updated Policy provided to Committee, resulting in Council approval of the proposed changes to the Program on April 29, 2024.
Summary of survey responses related to the proposed changes to the Program:
• 86% of respondents were in support of the Town adding a memorial art installation at the waterfront (ex., a dedication wall), which could house numerous plaques and provide a place of remembrance for residents from across the community.
• 57% of respondents preferred the continued use of plaques on concrete pillars for tree dedications.
• 89% of respondents had no concerns with the proposed change to stainless steel plaques on backrests of benches instead of bronze plaque installed on a concrete pillar underneath.
• 61% of respondents had concerns with the proposed changes to limit plaque replacements from vandalism to 1 year and 2 years for replacement due to damage or maintenance needs.
• 66% of respondents were supportive of at least some percentage of the Program’s fees being subsidized by tax dollars.
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