Don’t shut off the Centennial Fountain

Re: Council’s possible decision to terminate

operation of the Little Lake Fountain, Oct. 30 The Examiner reported that city council may soon consider shutting off the Centennial Fountain in Little Lake for good. I implore them not to do so.

A decision was already made in January to curtail operation of the fountain to two months a year from the traditional operation of the May 24 weekend when the Trent-Severn Waterway system opens and our Little Lake blossoms with activities involving citizens and visitors alike until Thanksgiving weekend.

If I understand correctly, that curtailment was prompted by research by one councillor that $40,000 a year would be saved which could then be allocated to climate change initiatives.

We have some councillors that are not originally from our city and may not be familiar with the history of our beloved fountain.

In 1967, a group of private businesses and individuals designed and fully funded construction of the fountain which has been an engineering marvel for the last 50 plus years.

It has added an esthetic to our downtown core and enhanced enjoyment of the many activities, music festivals multicultural events and other activities which focus around our downtown core, park and waterfront, a core which we are continuously attempting to beautify, preserve and protect to ensure continuing vibrancy to our city.

Our majestic, distinctive and distinguishing fountain is a source of wonderful and soul-soothing beauty for many of our citizens and a point of interest for our tourist industry. As well as being mindful of the preservation of our city’s esthetic I would further implore council to be respectful of our history and heritage.

In this era of cancel culture please look for your economies elsewhere and refrain from destroying this inspiring landmark. What’s next, the Town Clock, the Lift Lock?

Glenn Stuart