Richmond residents are invited to share their input on potentially creating a memorial garden in the city.
The garden would be an "inclusive, contemplative space" for people to honour and remember loved ones.
Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie said the idea of a garden has been "floating around" for at least 20 years and believes this is an important project for the community.
"I think people in Richmond should be able to be born in the city, live their lives in the city and be memorialized in the city in some way," said Brodie, adding that Richmond cannot have an in-ground cemetery due to the city's "high water table."
He said a memorial garden could mean various things, and once discussions start among community members there are often "concerns as to what it may look like."
"Consultation on the concept is the first step to make sure that it would meet the needs and be done in a way that would be pleasing to the residents of our city."
While no specific locations have been considered at the moment, residents will have six weeks to share their thoughts about the idea of a memorial garden, including what features, amenities, and forms of remembrance would help build the space.
The results of this public engagement process will be brought together in a report to be presented to city council for consideration in fall 2025.
Four in-person, drop-in style open houses will be available for the public and city staff to engage in discussions and answer questions.
Open house material will be in English and Traditional Chinese.
- Wednesday, May 21, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Hamilton Community Centre, 5140 Smith Dr.
- Saturday, May 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
West Richmond Community Centre, 9180 No. 1 Rd.
- Tuesday, June 3, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Cambie Community Centre, 12800 Cambie Rd.
- Saturday, June 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate
For those who cannot make it to the in-person open houses, residents can also complete an online survey on the city's website LetsTalkRichmond.ca/MemorialGarden, until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, June 22.
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