Update: According to city officials, the motion to look into fencing the perimeter of Galt Garden will be moved to the July 25 council meeting. Members of the public are given a chance to speak on items at committee meetings, but not at council.
A city committee will discuss installing fencing around Galt Gardens. Mayor Blaine Hyggen and councillor John Middleton-Hope will bring the motion to the community safety standing policy committee on July 13.
It proposes council direct city administration to look into the cost, availability and implementation of erecting a wrought iron fence as a permanent park boundary.
“The park is a vital community space where residents will be able to engage in recreational activities, socialize and connect with nature once again. By investing in a wrought iron fence, we would be demonstrating our commitment to maintaining and improving public spaces, which in turn fosters community pride and engagement. The enhanced safety and aesthetics would encourage more people to utilize the park, promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle,” reads a part of the motion.
It notes other communities have used similar fencing to improve security for public spaces and “minimize unauthorized entry.”
“The gardens have served the citizens of Lethbridge well as a gathering place to host numerous public events for more than one hundred years, and inappropriate social behaviors have become common place in the park and negatively impact citizens’ ability to fully enjoy Galt Gardens, the jewel at the heart of Lethbridge,” the motion says.
It will be discussed at the committee meeting and if carried as is, would go to city staff with a deadline to report back to the committee before Nov. 15.