Written By David Gomez
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - Rows of local plants, towering sunflowers and interpretive displays at Glencoe District High School (GDHS) became the focus of discussion at council on April 22, as retired science teacher Jason Broderick sought municipal support for the final phase of the school’s pollinator garden project.
Broderick appeared before council requesting $400 to help fund a permanent interpretive sign for the GDHS Pollinator Butterflyway Gardens. During his presentation, he described how the initiative has expanded since its beginnings in 2019.
“What began in Glencoe District High School as two modest 12-by-8 native planting areas has grown into something much more significant,” he said.
According to Broderick, the project has transformed roughly 20,000 square feet of lawn into native habitat supporting pollinators, birds and wildlife. He said the gardens now contain thousands of native plants and serve as an outdoor educational space tied to science, sustainability and environmental stewardship.
“The final phase of this project is simple but important, a permanent interpretive sign,” Broderick told council. The sign would explain the history and ecological purpose of the gardens while recognizing the municipality and community partners who contributed to the initiative.
Broderick also shared images of existing interpretive signage already installed at the site, along with photos documenting the garden’s development over several years.
He credited local businesses, volunteers, students and community members for helping expand the project. “It’s truly something that’s taken off,” he said, adding that the gardens become “a buzz of activity” during the summer months with pollinators and wildlife.
Mayor Allan Mayhew noted that the request arrived after the municipality’s budget process had already concluded but said council could still explore options for funding.
“There are always ways to accommodate requests, or at least we try to, in some cases,” he said.
Councillors also asked about the school board’s involvement and the long-term sustainability of the project. Broderick said he continues to work with school administration and is encouraging other teachers to become involved so the gardens can continue into the future.
Following discussion, Councillor Joel Haggith introduced a motion directing treasury staff to allocate $400 toward the project, with support from Councillor Ed Myers. Council approved the contribution unanimously.
After the vote, Broderick thanked council for its support, saying the decision “really hit my heart, very, very much.”
