A full gallery of Blind River residents listened intently at last Monday’s council meeting as the mayor’s notice of motion was debated and then passed unanimously, reversing a previous decision that would have left Shirvon Park without playground equipment.
The previous decision, to remove and not replace the playground equipment, was made after nesting turtles were discovered at the waterfront park on Shirvon Drive.
‘Halt the removal of any playground equipment’
Mayor Hagman’s motion, seconded by Councillor Posteraro, highlighted the importance of protecting turtle habitat, educating the public about protecting turtles and their habitat, and having “a safe park to play in harmony with nature.”
The motion resolved, “that council halt the removal of any playground equipment at Shirvon Park and bring Shirvon Park back to the budget committee” in the 2025 budget process.
‘I love the community support’
Councillor Posteraro was the first council member to speak to the motion. “I love the community support. It’s always so beautiful to see democracy in action with people actually getting involved and coming out – especially our youth, which are our future leaders of tomorrow.”
“I foresee in the future, that we can come to a beautiful win-win for everyone – for turtles and the children of the community.”
Posteraro finished, adding, “I hope that there’s just as much community involvement moving forward when we try to plan that [park] beautifully.”
Councillor Jim Dunbar thanked the mayor for bringing the motion forward.
Dunbar commented, “I also believe that this council can find a suitable coexistence formula with this space.”
‘This is your community’
Mayor Hagman said, “We do really appreciate the public’s input. This is your community, and we want to ensure that we will do as much as we can do within the budget dollars that we were allocated.”
All seven members of council were present as a recorded vote was called.
The motion passed unanimously and residents in the gallery applauded.
After the vote, some residents spoke with ElliotLakeToday outside the council chamber. One Shirvon Drive parent said the playground is important not only for the children on their street, but for those living in a near-by apartment building, too.
While pleased with the vote, the residents were cautious due to the future budget decisions. They said they intend to continue following the process.
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