Owen Sound Officially Renames Kelso Beach at Nawash Park

On June 12, members of the Reconciliation Garden Committee were present at the City Council meeting to celebrate and acknowledge the official renaming of Kelso Beach at Nawash Park. This is an important milestone in the City’s path to Reconciliation with Indigenous People in our Community. City staff completed a smudging ceremony of Council Chambers prior to the passing of the by-law and Council meeting.  

In 2018, the City adopted the practice of referring to the park as Kelso Beach at Nawash Park. However, the park will officially be renamed with the passing of the by-law.  The request to rename the park was made by a member of the Reconciliation Garden Committee and the renaming was approved as an action in the Kelso Beach at Nawash Park Master Plan earlier this year.   

City staff will begin updating the signage for Kelso Beach at Nawash Park, as well as working with the Gichi-Name Wiikwedong Reconciliation Garden Committee to determine when a dedication and cultural celebration for the renaming will take place. 

For more information, please contact Adam Parsons, Manager of Parks and Open Space at 519-376-4440 ext. 1221 or email to aparsons@owensound.ca 

Quotes: 

" A key objective of the City’s strategic plan is supporting inclusivity, diversity, and accountability in the community, and we’re proud to reflect these goals in the renaming of Kelso Beach at Nawash Park.” 

-Mayor Ian Boddy 

Quick Facts: 

• With the passing of the by-law on June 12, Owen Sound will officially rename Kelso Beach at Nawash Park. 
• City staff will begin updating signage and determining when a celebration for the renaming will take place. 

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