CANMORE – The Town of Canmore has re-established a program to memorialize loved ones through commemorative plaques on benches throughout the community after suspending it in 2015.
The Memorial Plaque Program has some differences, however, including offering the public an option between placing a plaque on a bench or a picnic table, according to manager of public works Andreas Comeau.
"We have not actively done anything with the program since 2015," Comeau said. "Administration determined it needed to replace the program with something more robust; with something that provided more clarity and was reflective of what the costs are to put the benches in and perhaps look at expanding the program."
The previous Memorial Bench Program was started in the 1990s. Benches cost $2,800 and included one plaque, with an option for a second plaque for an additional $250.
"Participants had the opportunity to choose the location, which was one of the challenges we had with the program," Comeau said.
Over the past five years, administration has worked on improving the program. Changes include an updated cost-recovery fee structure, a clear end date for those who participate in it, and allowing applicants to choose from predetermined locations that are available.
Comeau said while the past program was limited to six memorial benches with plaques per year, many people wanted to have them placed along the Bow River trail.
"We ended up with a bit of a deficit in other locations and a significant number of benches along the Bow River with the old program, where we allowed people to choose the location," he said. "To be clear, the benches and plaques are owned by the Town and maintained by the Town.
"There was a belief that [applicants] actually owned the benches. At various times of the year, we would see flowers or other memorabilia on special anniversary dates that we would have to remove ... people would inspect the benches and say 'I believe it needs sanding, or replacing.'
"It made things quite problematic."
The new program provides an option of a 10 or 20-year term; provides the opportunity to place a second plaque on the bench or picnic table; and to start would allow up to 15 applications per year over the next three years on a first come, first served basis – with no wait list. The application process will begin in October 2021.
A 10-year bench would cost $3,050 and $5,500 for 20 years, with an additional plaque costing $490. A 10-year picnic table would cost $3,650 and $6,750 for 20 years.
"We know there are a lot of people waiting right now that would love to participate in this program," Comeau said.
There are currently 84 benches in the program. Those installed before 2005 will be given another five years as part of a transition plan between the two programs. Those installed after 2005 will have another 20 years added to their timeline.
Memorial plaques will also only be for deceased loved ones, excluding pets and those who may still be alive.
CORRECTION: This story previously reported that the program would begin in 2020.
