WEST PUBNICO - Beautification in West Pubnico is underway thanks to the formation of the West Side Improvement Society.
The fundraising organization operates similar to the 100 + Women Who Care in Yarmouth County and the 100 Guys Who Share Yarmouth County.
Spokesperson Darryl LeBlanc says the idea for the society evolved between Municipality of Argyle councillor Glenn Digdon and Sherman d’Entremont, who is the now president of the society.
“Our goal is to get up to 100 individuals, families or companies in the area, each committing $150 twice a year,” he says.
There are already close to 60 members registered. Society members will review projects nominated for improvements in the West Pubnico area (which includes all of West Pubnico up to the Green Grove Road) and vote on which to pursue.
Money raised will be used to fund the projects.
The first meeting was held in June at the Royal Canadian Legion in West Pubnico, with three projects presented. Two of the projects were approved and are now being completed.
A privately-owned overgrown hillside along Route #335, known locally as La Butte a Gracie, was cleared with the owner’s permission, and hosta, lupins and other flowers were planted. More plants are being added.
Also, the centre of two triangular intersections off the main road leading to Le Village historique acadien have been cleared of overgrown vegetation and planted with flowers.
“It’s pretty exciting and all the work is being done by volunteers. If we do have to hire people for some of the projects we’ll have the funds to do that,” says LeBlanc.
Potential projects can range from clearing and planting an area for beautification to installing solar lights along a sidewalk or benches along a walking trail.
“It’s up to the members who join,” said LeBlanc.
The next meeting will be held Sept. 13 at the West Pubnico Royal Canadian Legion. The first meeting of 2019 will be in April.
“The idea is to get these projects done prior to winter and summer,” LeBlanc says.
For more info
Visit the West Side Improvement Society Facebook Page
Contact Darryl LeBlanc at the West Pubnico Credit Union (902-740-3261)