Templin Gardens now belongs to the residents of Centre Wellington, after council approved a purchase bylaw on Monday night.
The picturesque riverfront property had been in private hands for a number of years, with the township leasing the stairways leading to the river, plus the garden near the Fergus Grand Theatre. That cost was $1,200 per year.
Council was to sign the purchase agreement on Tuesday afternoon for a total cost of $75,000.
Mayor Joanne Ross-Zuj was ecstatic at having a chance to return the property to Fergus.
“I’m just delighted to secure it,” she said in an interview Tuesday morning.
She said the idea now is to improve the area and consider beautifying the entire river walk behind Menzies Lane. She added the Fergus BIA is also interested.
Ross-Zuj said there has already been some new plantings in the area and some fencing.
She added, “We’ve had wonderful cooperation from the Fergus Horticultural Society. It’s a treat to see the work done there.”
Ross-Zuj said she was very happy the township now owns the property.
“Historically, it should always have been a part of the town of Fergus – and now it will be.”
Templin Gardens is named after the legendary family that owned and operated the Fergus News Record Newspaper for years. Hugh Templin, in particular, was one of the most respected Newspaper editors in Canada.
Ross-Zuj said the township already owns a large part of the parking lot that is part of Templin Gardens, and there are a few privately held spaces there.
When council considered the bylaw, councillors Kirk McElwain, Fred Morris and Walt Visser were in favour, with councillor Bob Foster opposed.
Councillors Shawn Watters and Ron Hallman were absent.
