The Tamil Genocide Monument in Brampton.

A new monument policy will see the city move from “case-by-case” approval framework to standardized rules when being placed on public property.

The new framework for monuments erected on public property follows plans for updated standards for statues on private and commercial properties, like the 54-foot-tall statue of the deity Shiva unveiled last year.

Prior to the new rules approved by a committee of council on Wednesday, proposals for monuments and memorials on city property have been considered on a case-by-case basis.

A report says the new policy is “a more formalized process” for proposals either initiated by council or from external donors, which will be reviewed by a Monuments and Memorials Working Group made up of city staff, management, and council.

“In exceptional circumstances, Council may consider alternative approaches outside of these pathways, at its discretion,” the report reads.

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The new policy framework follows “increased public interest” in City-led and community-initiated monuments and memorial projects on municipally owned property, the report says.

Several moments and memorials in Brampton have made headlines in recent years, from the Tamil Genocide Memorial which led Mayor Patrick Brown to make allegations of “foreign interference” against the Sri Lankan government.

A 55-foot statue of the Hindu god Hanuman unveiled at the Sabha Mandir in Brampton also drew criticism online, as did the Shiva statue completed last year.

A monument honouring former Ontario Premier and Brampton native Bill Davis was unveiled at the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives in July. Members of the local Portuguese and Azorean community also want to bring a replica of the ancient Ponta Delgada city gates to a Brampton park.

The city has also updated its Asset Naming Policy, separate from the public and private property memorial rules.


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