Councillor's memorial

Photo: Contributed - City of Vernon

Patrick Nichol memorial placement in Polson Park

In remembrance of Patrick Nicol, a well loved Vernon city councillor who was committed to Vernon parks and bringing people together, a memorial area will be built in Polson Park. The park was Nicol's favourite.

Vernon City Council voted Monday to provide up to $10,000 for the memorial after Nicol lost his long battle with leukaemia in January. Over 1,000 people attending his memorial service in February. 

“We are going to call it Patrick's Gathering Place," said Councillor Juliette Cunningham, who chaired The Patrick Nicol Memorial Committee. They worked together with public input to decide how Nicol should be remembered in the community.

The committee chose an area of Polson Park near the bandshell where Nicol lead Canada Day festivities for decades. It will include a seating area and a commemorative plaque on a large rock.

"It's modest but meaningful," said Cunningham.

Cunningham says the Committee ended up choosing that particular area because of the public's recognition of Patrick's dedication to Canada Day.

It is anticipated that Patrick's Gathering Place will be built and ready in a few short weeks with a unveiling ceremony planned for Canada Day.