Charlie the cat.
Lansdale Parks and Recreation Committee are expected to review the proposal Wednesday night.
In the wake of his death, White’s Road Park Charlie continues to have a positive influence on the community.
Thus, a small group of residents are proposing a Little Library, a memorial bench and a small playground piece for White’s Road Park in Charlie’s memory.
The borough Parks and Recreation Committee will tentatively review the proposal Wednesday night.
“Community members have shared some thoughtful ideas for honoring Charlie the Cat at White’s Road Park. Right now, details such as the location and how ongoing maintenance will be managed are still being finalized,” said Lansdale Parks and Recreation Director Courtney Fox. “I anticipate the committee will provide input regarding the location and any maintenance considerations. My recommendation will be for the parks maintenance crew to assist with the installation of the bench and Little Library, as they have the necessary skills and equipment. The small playground piece should be installed by the subcontractor who works with the playground representative.”
Linette Kalbach, of Upper Gwynedd, who resides next to the park and was a second mom to Charlie, is part of the group organizing the memorial. The current memorial at the park by the playground is meant to be only temporary.
“So far, I have secured generic approval … for a sharing library box and bench, so long as both are durable and low maintenance for several years,” Kalbach said. “Color is to be determined, but I think an orange or cedar look would be great. It needs to be weatherproof and durable.”
The group has some initial ideas in mind:
One large box or two boxes that separate an adults/general book section from a children’s book section and large enough that a mural of Charlie can be painted on it.
Smaller weatherproofed boxes to hold dog treats and sidewalk chalk
A display area built into on the side, or even connecting the general and children’s boxes, to contain the memorial items that have been left for Charlie
A six- to eight-foot bench nearby in a matching style
A memorial rock garden to go near the bridge by the lower parking lot behind the picnic table
More information will come out of the committee meeting Wednesday night and will be shared at the council work session at 8:30 p.m.
