HALTON HILLS, ON – The Town of Halton Hills and the Acton BIA are issuing a joint statement about the ‘I Love Acton’ art installation. Both parties recognize that the piece is a wonderful representation of community heart – and noted the generosity of Nancy Wilkes, owner of Acton Optical and her daughter Nicole Wilkes for sponsoring the beautiful addition to downtown Acton.
“Part of what makes our Town so special is how involved and passionate our community is,” said Mayor Ann Lawlor. “The Acton art sculpture is a great example. Yes, there have been a few problems however, this should not detract from what is still a lovely thought and what we believe will be, an outstanding piece of public art for all to enjoy.”
“The Acton BIA is very appreciative of the donation and recognizes that there has been some confusion about events,” said Monica Parker-Galway, Acton BIA Chair. “The BIA received a donation of artwork by well-known local artist Doris Treleaven. The ‘I Love Acton’ artwork was then installed in the Town parkette at Mill and Main which the BIA has been actively maintaining.”
Immediately following the installation, concerns were raised by the Town regarding the installation of the piece. The Town coordinated and collaborated with the Acton BIA throughout the process of accessing the safety of the sculpture prior to its removal. The BIA engaged a licensed engineer to assess the installation. The engineer noted safety concerns and recommended that the piece be removed until an appropriate new base and installation attachments can be installed. The Town further assisted the BIA by securing funding for the safety assessment and the design of a safe installation design. A Licensed Professional Engineer has prepared a plan for a safe reinstallation.
The artwork has been temporarily removed to allow for the construction of the required base and attachments. The BIA and Town look forward to continuing to work together alongside the artist to reinstall the art when possible, for the enjoyment of the area residents and visitors.
The vibrancy of downtown Acton remains a key Town priority. The municipality has worked closely with the BIA to advance numerous initiatives focused on beautification, business supports and tourism.
About the Town of Halton Hills
The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of approximately 60,000, consists of two urban centers, Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval – and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centers, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. The Town is ranked as one of the top small communities in Canada by a national magazine.
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