Yes the spring and summer are to come but plans afoot for some dramatic changes at Lion’s Park.

A committee has been meeting in the darker months planning for the arrival of the annual visitors which include, pickers, travelers*, tourists and others.

On the list:

Event planning for St. Jean Baptiste Day June 24 (BBQ event possibly the night before)
Extra bylaw enforcement patrols by Town contract officers and RCMP
The joint use of a student ambassador in cooperation with the Tourist Association
Distribution of multi-language information pamphlets on Oliver services and expectations

Changes to the layout of the park including a new off leash dog park and secure walk for small dogs at the north end. Removal of the children’s playground to the main community park and a new “au naturel” kids park to be constructed closer to the visitors centre.

Local media being asked to circulate interesting feature stories on the “visitors” in an attempt to foster understanding between locals and those involved in agriculture during the cherry season.
Future plans include a wi-fi area and a solar powered charging station for electronic devices.
New multi-language signage should be visible soon.

Parks Manager Carol Sheridan says the park is cleaned once a day but a stronger policy of enforcing bylaws would make a world of difference and limit problems.