The town officially has a policy for naming its parks and properties, Bradford West Gwillimbury council recently voted.
The policy also includes how larger groups can apply and pay to name properties.
BWG council approved a Committee of the Whole recommendation March 19 to move forward with a Park, Facility or Property Naming policy.
“This is an opportunity for the family name to be recognized. It’s a great way to be able to remember the contributions of families in the community,” said Mayor Rob Keffer at an earlier meeting.
According to the draft policy, some of the name selection criteria includes:
- What is the name’s relationship to the park, facility or property?
- Does it reflect the location?
- Does it recognize the historical and cultural significance of the area?
As well, when selecting a name, town staff will consider:
- Whether the naming opportunity enhances the town’s image
- Whether the opportunity considers and reflects existing arrangements
- Whether the sponsor is in good standing with the town
As for restrictions, proposed names will not be considered if they come from groups related to alcohol, tobacco or weapons, if they have a specific religious message, and if their reputation could be detrimental to the town’s public image, according to a staff report.
The last time the town formally accepted recommendations for naming parks and facilities was in 1990, and it resulted in several new names, including Harmon Park, Fuller Heights Park, Taylor Park, Fallis Field, Evans Field, Davey Lookout, Cericola Field and Reeves Field, according to the report.
Since then, naming has been done as needed, resulting in a variety of other names, such as The Bob Fallis Sports Centre, Bud Brown Park, Alan Kuzmich Park, Joe Magani Park, Henderson Memorial Park, and Ron Simpson Memorial Park.
