EMBRUN — Russell Township council has approved up to $2,000 in support for Accessible Halloween, an Oct. 3 event planned from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Jonathan-Pitre Accessible Park in Embrun. The Township will also support the event through its communications channels and a municipal presence at the site. Council’s discussion focused both on the event itself and on using it to demonstrate municipal support for accessibility.
Coun. Marc Lalonde called it “a very significant event,” saying the size and scope planned for Jonathan-Pitre Park would make it “quite a remarkable event.” He said organizers had already been working with Township parks staff and wanted council and the administration visibly involved. Lalonde said the organizers had been enthusiastic about the support they were receiving from the municipality.
The funding discussion identified roughly $1,200 to $1,400 for portable toilets, a hand-washing station and a sensory space. Council also discussed whether remaining funds could help support a butterfly display honouring Jonathan Pitre, although details of that element were still being developed. Township involvement will also include a municipal booth and banner, use of its communications channels, support from parks staff and volunteer participation by fire-service members.
Coun. Lisa Deacon said the Township’s visibility at the event could carry a broader message than simply acknowledging a financial contribution. She described the arrangement as similar to sponsorship and said the purpose was “to send the message out that the local government is supportive and a champion of accessibility in our community.” Deacon said a visible municipal presence could also encourage residents living with disabilities to feel more comfortable approaching Township staff and council.
Lalonde said organizers wanted the Township to figure prominently in the event from the beginning. “They were ecstatic about the support from the get-go that they were getting from the township,” he said, adding that the municipal booth would give the Township an opportunity to explain what it is doing on accessibility to residents attending from both inside and outside Russell. Council ultimately approved the event-support recommendations and authorized up to $2,000 in Township financial support.