Plympton-Wyoming council turned down a request from mayoral candidate Tim Wilkins’ business to use a local park during the election campaign.

Wyoming Tree Service holds a tree planting seminar each year on National Tree Day and planned to hold a seminar in Kings Square Park Sept. 21. 

Wilkins says the company has been holding the ‘Tree Talk’ on National Tree Day for about 18 years. Last year it moved to a municipal park after the local school boards pandemic protocols wouldn’t allow the company to hold the seminar.

The company paid a fee of over $300 to use the park, plants two trees there and trims others in the area. Wilkins says the business was charged a fee then because there was a picnic shelter. This year, Wilkins business would have had the park for free since there is only play equipment there.

But when the rental agreement came to council Wednesday, there were concerns about optics. Gary Atkinson, who is also running for the top job, questioned whether Wilkins should be using a local park during an election campaign.

“I think it’s a really good idea. I think it’s something that the community really needs. The concept is good. But I sometimes question the ownership of the company because you’re entered into the municipal election… Would you consider postponing it till after the election?”

Wright added “she looks at it as an unfair advantage and it will be more appropriate if you defer this until after October 24.” Wilkins says the event is held because it is National Tree Day.

Councillor Mike Vasey also thought the timing was off. “I understand you did this last year Tim. And we appreciate that but you also weren’t running for mayor last year…you’re on the line that you’ve got two other candidates that you’re running against and then your company is putting something on in town and we’re giving you the park to do it.”

But Mayor Lonny Napper disagreed saying the company was only being “civic minded.”

Wilkins said this is not a campaign event and the other two mayoral candidates, Atkinson and Wright, as well as members of council and candidates were welcome to attend. He added if a council member had a concern they should go to the Integrity Commissioner.

After council pulled the plug on the rental, Wilkins told The Independent he’ll approach Petrolia council to see if council will allow the event in one of the town’s parks.