The District of Sooke will take the next steps toward formalizing an agreement with the Royal Canadian Legion to maintain the townB次元官网网址檚 war cenotaph.

A section of the cenotaphB次元官网网址檚 structure collapsed earlier this year due to rotting latticework.

Ted Davies, president of the Sooke Legion branch, said the district is responsible for maintaining the cenotaph. But when Davies approached the district about the repair, he was told the district had not budgeted for the cenotaphB次元官网网址檚 upkeep.

It was a miscommunication between district staff and the Legion, said Raechel Gray, SookeB次元官网网址檚 deputy chief administrative officer.

B次元官网网址淲eB次元官网网址檒l endeavour not to let this happen for future years,B次元官网网址� she said.

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The district has had an informal agreement for maintaining the cenotaph since 2018.

Cenotaph maintenance costs the district about $750 year and includes weeding, pressure washing and flag replacement.

As part of the 2023 budget, staff will propose a project to replace the lattice panel fencing. Composite materials would be used to increase longevity and reduce maintenance costs. A one-time capital investment of approximately $10,000 is anticipated.

The Legion and Sooke have a strong history of collaboration on projects and programs, such as Remembrance Day.

Davies and council agreed a formal agreement was needed, and councillors voted to create a memorandum of understanding (MOU).

B次元官网网址淭he key for the Legion is the MOU, so there is clarity between the District of Sooke and the Legion over the responsibility for the upkeep of the cenotaph,B次元官网网址� said Coun. Jeff Bateman.

Built in 1920, the cenotaph has graced three locations in Sooke. In 1920, it was at the corner of Murray and Sooke roads. It moved to the corner of Sooke and Sheilds roads in 1953, and its current location in 1979 next to the Legion on Eustace Road.

editor@sookenewsmirror.com
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