The future of one of Bayham’s most recognizable landmarks could soon be in new hands.
Municipal council will hold a special meeting Thursday night to consider transferring ownership of the historic Port Burwell Lighthouse to the Port Burwell Historical Society.
The potential transfer is being viewed as an important step toward preserving the landmark, which is currently closed to the public because of structural stabilization concerns.
The Port Burwell Historical Society has expressed interest in taking ownership of the property and leading a restoration project. The Municipality of Bayham says moving ownership from the public sector to a not-for-profit organization would allow the project to qualify for a wider range of grant funding opportunities, increasing the chances of securing financial support for the lighthouse’s restoration.
Bayham Treasurer Lorne James says the possibility of restoring the lighthouse could have a significant impact on the community.
The special council meeting takes place Thursday, July 30th at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Municipality of Bayham office in Straffordville.
If council approves the transfer, a media event is scheduled for Friday, July 31st at 2:00 p.m. at the Port Burwell Marine Museum.
The Port Burwell Lighthouse has long been a symbol of the community’s maritime history, and supporters hope the proposed ownership change will help preserve it for future generations.
Written by John Biggs
