MLA Al Horning, Kelowna mayor Sharon Shepherd, MLA Sindi Hawkins and new park's namesake, former mayor Jim Stuart, with the Spirit Squares cheque.
Stuart Park in Kelowna will soon have its very own B.C. Spirit Square, thanks to $500,000 from the provincial government.
The park was created to honour Jim Stuart, who served on the Board of the Regional District of Central Okanagan for 29 years, including 15 years as Chairman.
In 1973, he embarked on a 23-year career in municipal politics when elected to the City of Kelowna Council. In 1986.he successfully ran for Mayor, a position he held until 1996.
He was also an executive member of the Municipal Finance Authority for 17 years, of which 12 were as chairman.
The square will become the focal point of Kelowna’s downtown waterfront and the hub for the city’s business, government and cultural districts. The location is further enhanced by being a home to a civic plaza, which will be an ideal venue for a variety of year round events, performances, and ceremonies.
The funding announcement was made Oct. 19 by Kelowna-Lake Country MLA Al Horning and Kelowna-Mission MLA Sindi Hawkins.
MLA Al Horning, Kelowna mayor Sharon Shepherd and MLA Sindi Hawkins by the Spirit Square sign.