Kindness meters could soon be placed in Cobourg to raise funds for charity. Photo courtesy of The Delta Community Foundation Facebook page.
Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative.
Two decorative parking meters could soon be installed in Cobourg after three high school students recommended these meters serve to raise funds for local charities.
Molly Spiewak, Rory Vanderhyden and Avery MacPherson of the Kindness Collective Fund presented to Cobourg Council Wednesday suggesting that a coin meter be situated near Victoria Hall, while a digital meter be placed by the waterfront.
The digital meter would be equipped with a QR code to allow pedestrians to donate directly to designated charity. Vanderhyden says Cobourg charities would benefit greatly from this program.
“The revenue from these meters would not go towards parking fees but to selected charities,” said Vanderhyden. “They would be local Cobourg organizations.”
To encourage enthusiasm, local artists would compete for the design of the meters, which would be in accordance with Cobourg colours and themes.
The students proposed a one-year pilot project, selecting one charity to benefit from the proceeds. Yet if the program is a success, the charities would rotate quarterly. The charities would be awarded based on Town officials recommendations.
Kindness Collective is hoping to raise $10,000 a year through this program. Cobourg collects approximately $1400 a year per parking meter. A similar program has been launched in Delta, British Columbia.
Councillor Adam Bureau said he’s in favour of this as it may help those in need.
“I really like this idea. I think this is a great way to give back to the community and people in need. As well, I think this is going to make people actually pay for parking,” stated Bureau.
Cobourg Council unanimously passed a motion to direct Town officials to study the matter further before a final decision. A timeline was not established.
