Commemorative Bench and Tree Program
A donation through the Township’s Commemorative Bench and Tree Program is a lasting and rewarding way to recognize an accomplishment, honour the memory of a loved one, or celebrate a special occasion.
The donation becomes a special tribute and enhances Puslinch’s parks and open space areas.
The Township offers two types of commemorative features including benches and trees.
Program Details
- A maximum of 3 bench and/or tree donations per year, whether as individual trees, benches, or a combination of both. Any requests exceeding this limit will be given priority for installation in the following year.
- An Official Donation Receipt for the value of the item will be issued to the Donor.
- Commemorative items will be installed between April 1st and October 31st, weather permitting.
- The location of benches and trees will be determined by Township staff.
- Installation will be completed by Township staff and donors will be notified once the item has been installed.
- If the location of the bench proves to cause concern due to vandalism or other issues, the Township may relocate the bench.
- The Township will be responsible for replacing the commemorative item or plaque within a two year time frame including replacement for theft or vandalism. Replacement required beyond two years would be the responsibility of the Donor.
- Replacement for theft or vandalism will be aid by the Township one time for the commemorative item or commemorative plaque.
- 10 years from the installation date, the Township holds the right to remove a bench or commemorative plaque if it comes unsightly.
- If the Donor wishes to renew the bench or commemorative plaque after 10 years, a renewal fee may be charged.
- If the Donor does not wish to renew their bench or commemorative plaque or the Township is unable to contact the Donor, the item(s) may be removed at the Township’s discretion.
- It is the Donor’s responsibility to contact the Township to maintain their most current contact information.
- To honour contributions Donors will be acknowledged with a 6-inch by 3-inch commemorative plaque which will be flush mounted on the commemorative item. The commemorative plaque will recognize the commemoration and an inscription approved by the Township.
Commemorative Benches
- The donation amount for a commemorative bench is $2,500. This includes the bench, installation, maintenance and a commemorative plaque for a ten-year period.
Commemorative Trees
- The donation amount of a commemorative tree is $1,350. This includes the tree, installation, maintenance and a commemorative plaque for the tree’s lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens to the commemorative bench after 10 years?
If the commemorative bench becomes unsafe and unusable after 10 years, the Township will remove it and the plaque will be provided to the donor. The donor will have the option to contribute to a new commemorative bench.
When will I receive my charitable receipt?
The Township will issue an Official Donation Receipt in the name of the Donor for an Eligible Donation accepted by the Township and made payable to the Township within 7 business days from the date that the Donation clears the bank.
The Director of Finance/Treasurer or designate shall be responsible for the issuance of all Official Donation Receipts for Eligible Donations accepted under this policy having a value of $20.00 or more. Official Donation Receipts will only be issued by the Township for Donations of $20.00 or more.