LAURIE WEIR
Perth town council met on Jan. 29 to discuss a variety of topics, including an upcoming multicultural food fair, new leadership for the Business Improvement Area (BIA) and Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), and potential heritage recognition for Crystal Palace.
Perth to host multicultural food fair
The Town of Perth, in partnership with Algonquin College, the Lanark County Rural Inclusion Project, Local Immigration Partnership, The Table Community Food Centre, and community volunteers, is hosting the first-ever Perth Multicultural Food Fair.
This free event will take place on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Algonquin College’s Perth campus. Attendees can sample authentic dishes from nine different countries, prepared by local community members, while enjoying live entertainment that celebrates the region’s cultural diversity.
The event is made possible through funding from the Perth and District Community Foundation (PDCF) and support from Giant Tiger and Barnabe’s Your Independent Grocer.
For more information, contact Stephanie Corrin at The Table Community Food Centre via stephanie@thetablecfc.org.
New leadership for RVCA and BIA
RVCA: Councillor Gary Waterfield has been elected chair of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority for 2025. He shared the news with council on Jan. 28, stating that he is “passionate about the vision and mission” of the organization and looks forward to the year ahead.
BIA: Perth’s Business Improvement Area (BIA) also has a new chair, with Sheldon Giff of Rideau Candy Shoppe taking on the role. Additionally, Brodie Berrigan has officially joined as a BIA member. The group is currently discussing web design and contract updates, according to Coun. Isabel Anne McRae.
Heritage recognition for Crystal Palace?
Coun. David Bird provided an update from the Heritage Perth Advisory Panel, stating that discussions are ongoing regarding potential heritage recognition for Crystal Palace.“It doesn’t meet the criteria for official heritage designation, but we are exploring alternative ways to recognize its significance—either at the town or provincial level,” Bird explained.