Photo: Town of Smiths Falls
Smiths Falls is putting more than $94,000 into downtown property improvements through its Community Improvement Plan.
Town council approved the funding on May 25 to help property owners in the downtown core invest in façade work, interior upgrades, heritage restoration and other improvements meant to make commercial spaces more attractive and usable.
One of the projects receiving support is Westminster Presbyterian Church in Smiths Falls.
The church will install 60 new commercial-grade smoke detectors throughout the building as part of a wider fire protection system upgrade. Some of the detectors will be installed in areas that can only be reached with multiple layers of scaffolding.
The town approved funding for 50 per cent of the cost, or $5,925.
Lorna Stewart, chair of the church’s board of managers, said the support is important as maintenance and upkeep costs continue to rise. She said the funding means a great deal to the congregation and to the community groups that use the facility.
Mayor Shawn Pankow said the investment supports the heart of the community. He said churches and heritage buildings are important landmarks, but also gathering places that bring people together.
Pankow said supporting their safety and preservation helps ensure they remain accessible and valued for future generations.
The town is now accepting applications for the fall intake of the Community Improvement Plan.
Business and property owners interested in improving their buildings can book a pre-consultation appointment to see whether their project qualifies for up to 85 per cent funding.
More information is available through the town by calling 613-283-4124 ext. 1136 or emailing [melmsley@smithsfalls.ca](mailto:melmsley@smithsfalls.ca).
