Owen Sound River District Kiosk to Be Replaced Following Board Decision
The Owen Sound River District Board has approved up to $15,000 to replace the informational community poster kiosk, following public support and discussion of digital vs. physical options.
The River District Board of Management has voted to replace the longstanding community poster kiosk that was removed earlier this year due to safety concerns.
At its meeting on Wednesday, May 14, the board approved a motion to install a new physical kiosk, with a budget of up to $15,000 to be drawn from the board's reserves.
The decision follows a staff report recommending replacement of the kiosk, which was originally installed during the “Big Dig” streetscape upgrades in the early 2000s.
Located in the municipal right-of-way near 849 2nd Avenue East, the kiosk had served as a central place for businesses and community organizations to promote local events. It was recently dismantled after an inspection found it had outlived its lifespan and posed a safety risk.
Community Support for Replacement
Ahead of the meeting, the board received a letter signed by representatives from United Way Bruce Grey, YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, Owen Sound Little Theatre, Owen Sound Library, and several other organizations, urging the board to approve the kiosk’s replacement.
Kristy Andre, Fundraising Champion at United Way Bruce Grey, presented the letter during the Public Forum session of the meeting, emphasizing the kiosk’s importance as a community communication tool.
The letter highlighted the kiosk’s role in equitable access to information, especially for individuals who may not use social media, such as newcomers, seniors, and low-income residents. It also aligned with the River District’s goals to enhance engagement, accessibility, and downtown beautification.
Board Discussion on Physical vs Digital
Board members discussed whether a digital sign might be a more modern alternative. Member Tim Dwyer raised the idea, noting that such signage is commonly used at transit stops and in outdoor conditions. Olivia Legate echoed the potential of digital displays, which can scroll through multiple messages and update easily.
However, River District Coordinator Viveca Gravel cautioned that a digital board would likely cost more and could be more vulnerable to damage. Chair Dave Parsons also expressed concerns, saying digital signs show only one message at a time and are "less versatile" than the physical poster board.
Travis Dodd, representative of City Council, added that the digital sign installed at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre failed within five years and proved costly to repair.
Dodd also noted possible issues with the City’s sign by-law and questioned whether a digital sign would be too flashy or distracting for the area. “Community groups are saying this [physical] format works,” he said, pointing out the original kiosk functioned well for 25 years.
Ultimately, the board sided with continuing the physical format. A motion by Richard Thomas to replace the kiosk and allocate up to $15,000 from reserves was passed.
Next Steps
The new kiosk will be consistent with the design principles outlined in the Harbour & Downtown Urban Design Master Plan, according to staff. Once installed, a media release will be issued, and updates shared through the River District newsletter.
For more information, the full staff report (CS-25-048) is available through the City of Owen Sound website.
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