Runciman signs on to help rebuild lighthouse hit by fire

Former senator and MPP Bob Runciman will chair the newly formed Re-Build Five Mile Light committee.

The committee has been formed to “explore the possibility and feasibility” of rebuilding the Cole Shoal Lighthouse destroyed by a fire following a lightning strike last week.

Runciman, a self-described “river rat,” was asked to join the committee and said he could not pass up the opportunity to do something about the loss of the historic structure.

“It’s a significant piece of history for the region and I think a lot of people are interested in the idea of rebuilding it,” Runciman said.

“I am happy to play a role and hopefully it can happen.”

On the committee, Runciman will be joined by two fellow politicians: Front of Yonge Mayor Roger Haley and Coun. Rob Smith of Elizabethtown-Kitley Township.

Rounding out the committee are Hudson Point residents Brian Burns and Michael Milne. Darlene Burns will act as administrator.

Brian Burns said after attempting to contact Steve Clark to no success, he phoned Runciman about joining the committee.

“There was no hesitation on Bob’s part,” said Burns. “He jumped in with a great big ‘yes.’ ”

Having somebody chair the committee with Runciman’s background is exactly what Burns and company were looking for.

“(He) brings his experience and leadership,” Burns said.

“Bob’s always had a passion for the Saint Lawrence River.”

Runciman said he believes initial action should focus on what the attitude and approach of the Ontario Heritage Trust (OHT) will be.

The OHT, owners of the now burned down lighthouse and the land it sat on since 1972, are in the very early phase of processing the destruction of the tower.

They’re the owners and if they want to see it rebuilt, then what role can we play locally to assist that?

“We’re going to consider our options to mark and commemorate the site somehow,” said Gordon Pim of the Ontario Heritage Trust.

People from the trust visited the site last week to get an understanding of the extent of the damage and ensure the land was still safe.

Runciman said he spoke to an individual at the trust and said the conversation indicated rebuilding is not something the OHT would traditionally get engaged with.

“They have to make a decision,” Runciman said. “They’re the owners and if they want to see it rebuilt, then what role can we play locally to assist that?”

Runciman said there are other options if rebuilding is not something the trust wishes to pursue.

“If they’re not interested in it then I think we should be exploring other things, like perhaps the sale of the shoal to the (Elizabethtown-Kitley) Township, if the township was interested and could take over the project,” said Runciman.