The late city council members Michael Vagnini (Ward 2) and Gerry Montpellier (Ward 3) are having public sites named after them.
During this week’s city council meeting, the city’s elected officials unanimously approved renaming the community hall located within the T.M. Davies Community Centre and Arena the Michael Vagnini Community Hall, and the Whitson River Trail the Gerry Montpellier Trail.
“I think it’s the right thing to do to recognize the longstanding contributions of both of these individuals,” Mayor Paul Lefebvre said after tabling a motion to rename the sites, adding that they were both “very passionate” about their communities.
Ward 1 Coun. Mark Signoretti added that the Whitson River Trail’s renaming is a particularly nice touch, as Montpellier was passionate about that trail in particular.
Lefebvre said the sites were chosen in collaboration with the late city council members’ families and that their families would also be consulted regarding next steps, including whether there will be ceremonies to formally rename the public sites. Plaques will be installed at both sites.
Both Vagnini and Montpellier died earlier this year. Click here for an article on Montpellier’s funeral, and here for an article on Vagnini’s funeral.
