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Feedback welcomed on proposed Central Saanich cenotaph

The public is invited to comment on the specific location and design of a new cenotaph in Central Saanich. Pioneer Park has been chosen by council, but there are two proposed sites within the park and the public are asked to choose.
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The “traditional” design is being considered which has a different design on each side. (District of Central Saanich)

The public is invited to comment on the specific location and design of a new cenotaph in Central Saanich. Pioneer Park has been chosen by council, but there are two proposed sites within the park and the public are asked to choose.

One is in the central area of the park, the other is in the north-west quadrant, which according to the District, might make it a quieter spot during busy summer events. Both sites will have benches so people can sit and reflect nearby. Drawings can be found at Central Saanich municipal hall and the Central Saanich branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library on Clarke Road.

In an email to the Peninsula News Review, Councillor Carl Jensen, chair of the cenotaph committee, said “this has been a significant project for the District in that it has been on our radar as a Strategic Project since the last term of Council.”

“I encourage the public to assist Council with the final details on this project by ensuring their voices are heard through the survey,” said Jensen.

The proposed design is described as a “simple trapezoid cenotaph,” (imagine a short Washington Monument that reaches the shoulder of the average adult), made from polished granite or concrete. Each of the cenotaph’s four faces will display a different message. A Coast Salish motif “acknowledges the pre-contact history of the First Nations and their struggles for survival.” A Canadian maple leaf “embraces all Canadians who have served their country and communities.” The Dove of Peace “offers hope that, in the future, peace will prevail.” Finally, the epitaph “Be at Peace” “can be read as a message to the fallen and a message to offer solace to their families.”

The public consultation is open from March 7 to 23. To comment online, visit surveymonkey.com/r/9KXNN8D. For questions, contact Brian Barnett, Director of Engineering and Public Works, at brian.barnett@csaanich.ca or 250 544 4211.