Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY - On December 2, Strathroy-Caradoc council voted to approve the establishment of a community garden in Strathroy, aiming to foster local food security and enhance community engagement. The decision was made following a presentation by Robert Lilbourne, Director of Community Services, which included plans to match a $10,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Strathroy with equal municipal funds through the Progress through Partnership program.
The garden will be located at Park Street, near a cooperative housing complex, an area selected due to its residents’ limited access to gardening space.
This initiative is initially set up as a pilot project, with council planning to review additional funding needs in the 2026 capital budget if the first phase is successful.
During the council meeting, financial details and project feasibility were thoroughly discussed. Councillor Donna Pammer questioned the sourcing of the additional $80,000 needed to meet the first phase’s total estimated cost of $100,000. Treasurer Bill Dakin acknowledged the need to review park land reserves to confirm available funds.
Councillor John Brennan expressed his support for the project, drawing parallels with the development of Strathroy’s trail system, which also benefited from phased funding and community partnerships over the years. He noted the potential for the community garden to follow a similar successful pathway.
The community garden is expected to provide numerous benefits, including social engagement through collective gardening efforts, health and well-being from physical activity and access to fresh produce, and educational opportunities in sustainability and nutrition.
