Penticton to launch plaques for heritage properties

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Forty historical buildings in Penticton will soon be recognized by plaques honouring their heritage value.

The plaques will display the history of the building and make note of key architectural features.

The Penticton Museum has been awarded a grant from Heritage BC for $2,000, and came to city council Tuesday to ask for the remaining money, $6,100, to fund the project, taking into account labour time.

Coun. Katie Robinson balked at the price point for installation.

"Is there some reason we can't give them the plaque and have them screw it on themselves? I mean, seriously, this isn't rocket science," Robinson said, even going so far as to volunteer her own services with a drill.

City staff assured her that the cost was a rough estimation and there will be opportunities to "sort out the details" and minimize costs, but what was being asked Tuesday was merely support for the concept of the project.

Council voted unanimously in favour.

Looking forward, the museum hopes to expand the project further than the 40 earmarked properties.

"What we'd like to do is in the future will incorporate Indigenous heritage sites working with the [Penticton Indian Band] and working with the Ooknakane Friendship Centre," said Dennis Oomen, museum director.

"We'll also be expanding the types of properties and their particular historical value and architectural value and incorporate those properties into the heritage registry as well, and eventually have them have their own plaques as well."