Members of Struts Gallery are reaching out to the community as they work towards their goal of raising $75.000 over the next few months to help keep their community space open and thriving.
Struts has launched a Building Fund campaign, seeking support to upgrade their facility on Lorne Street, a historical structure that has been a part of Sackville’s landscape since 1912.
They hope to raise $75,000 by April 30, which would allow the registered charity to match provincial funding to conduct essential work on the roof, balcony and masonry.
In an email appeal to Struts supporters, gallery director Paul Henderson says for the last 30 years, Struts has facilitated a world-renowned residency program and developed one of the best-resourced media arts production centres in rural Canada.
“Our iconic building at 7 Lorne Street has shaped our programming and provided us with opportunities to expand the support we could offer regional and national art communities,” he states.
Although the campaign’s focus is mainly on essential structural work, Henderson points out that it’s more about imagining the possibilities for what Struts Gallery can be and do for the community.
“It’s always been more than bricks and mortar, it’s about connecting people and ideas and providing a range of resources to make creative things happen,” he writes.
To donate, visit CanadaHelps.org and type in Struts Gallery Building Fund. All donations will receive a charitable tax receipt.
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From a new boat launch at Lillas Fawcett Park, to new flooring at the civic centre, to upgrades of Sackville’s splash pad, and paving of Woodlawn Road in Dorchester, Tantramar town council recently approved these projects and more as part of the municipality’s $1.845 million capital budget for 2026.
Council gave the green light to the new budget during its monthly meeting earlier in December, with director of financial services Michael Beal noting that it’s down from last year’s $2.005 million capital budget. It’s also less than half of what was requested by town staff, with Beal pointing out that each department had to prioritize specific projects and decided to defer some to future years.
2026 will see $100,000 allotted for resurfacing Woodlawn Road, $60.000 for resurfacing Samantha Court, $50.000 for a sidewalk on King Street, $275,000 for a new sidewalk plow, $75.000 for a new boom flail mower, among many other public works projects.
At the civic centre, $125,000 will go towards a new condenser, $105,000 to replace flooring, $10,000 for a new mural, and various other facility upgrades.
Parks will receive $25,000 for trail improvements, $65,000 to replace the Lilas Fawcett Park boat launch; $15,000 for an upgrade of Memorial Park, and $17,000 to modernize the splash pad at Bill Johnstone park.
Funds have also been allotted for fire department tools and equipment, an upgrade at the visitor information centre, and digital display signs for the municipality.
