What was happening in 1970?

By C Scott Holland

Just over 50 years ago, here is what was going on around Leamington:

Plans were made for the Sun Parlor Christian Crusade, which would occur over two weeks (May 17-31). It was the project of Essex County churches and the Bill Graham Evangelistic Association. The cost was estimated at $24,000 and about 35,000 people were expected to attend. Local chairperson of the event was Rev. L. F. O’Neil, of the First Baptist Church.

REV. L.F O'NEIL

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Mersea Township had a study done of its 113 miles of road systems and found it would require $4 million to meet its needs over the next decade. The long-term expectation was to provide a basis for wise and orderly selection of road improvement projects.

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Essex Cable TV asked town council if they could videotape a session of a council meeting. It would be a trial run and become a regular part of their programming if approved. Council agreed to have a test run and it would soon become a regular cable TV feature.

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A major shopping centre planned for Erie St. S. was sought by Pouncek Investments of Toronto. The company sought proper zoning of the site on the east side of Erie between Melrose and Pulford. The tract of land had been purchased from the original owners.

Leamington clerk-treasurer A. D. Jordan, said it would be a time-consuming process and involve a hearing with the Ontario Municipal Board.

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Property at the northeast corner of Fox and Russell Streets, owned by John and Irene Penner, was sold to the town for $18,500. Plans were for the residence to be demolished and a parking lot created.

Irene and John Penner.

Photo courtesy of the Scott Holland Collection

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Town council approved plans for construction of a 34-unit apartment complex to be built near Mill St. Centennial School. It would be on Lutsch Ave. and cost $356,000 with monthly rent at $35 per unit. The construction contract was awarded to Frank Lutsch Construction and the units would be ready by the end of the year.