Several municipalities in Rainy River District have welcoming signs at either end of their community and the Township of Alberton would like to mark their territory as well.
At last Wednesday’s regular meeting, council discussed plans for gateway signs welcoming district residents, tourists, and those passing through the township.
Their proposed slogan? “Welcome to Alberton: Country Living and Loving It!”
“I really like the design, but I think there should be bolder writing,” expressed Coun. Peter Spuzak, looking at the first sample sketch of the sign submitted by Wilson's Signs.
The suggested design, which displays “Alberton” in large capital letters, incorporates the township's logo, the aforementioned slogan, and a place to announce any upcoming activities or events in the community.
Spuzak also indicated he would like to see the pillars on either end of the sign extend above the top of the billboard.
“I think it would make for a stronger looking design,” he stated. “It would help it to look more exciting.”
But Coun. Doug Mitchell disagreed, citing he liked the straight edge along the top of the sign.
“It looks elegant, clean, and simple,” he said.
In addition to the design of the gateway sign, members of council also discussed the possible location of the signs and the colours that could be used on the display.
Coun. Mitchell had an idea in mind for a spot for the east-end sign near Oakwood Road and said he would speak to the owners of the property to get permission to put the sign there.
And Coun. Mike Ford reminded the group of the regulation that the sign can only sit eight feet above the road grade.
Meanwhile, Coun. Spuzak made some suggestions for the colours on the sign, such as gradated blue on the background.
“It would give it some depth and perspective,” he noted. “We may as well add some colour to it.”
Aside from the few additional ideas and disagreements, it was decided the general concept of the sketch was good and they will have a second sample design drawn up.
In other business at last Wednesday’s meeting, council:
•heard a report from the Alberton Roads Committee;
•discussed making some changes to the Official Plan;
•authorized CAO/Clerk-Treasurer Dawn Hayes, Coun. Barb Cournoyer, and Alberton Reeve Mike Hammond to attend the CEMC course in Thunder Bay in the fall;
•agreed to support the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry regarding the Farm Tax Rebate Program; and
•authorized all members of council to attend the 25th annual NOMA conference which will be held Sept. 20-21 in Thunder Bay.
The next meeting of the Township of Alberton council is slated for Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2007 at 7 p.m. at the municipal office.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
