Council approves Eagle Scout Merrick Fairchild’s memorial garden at Walcott Park

The Columbia Falls City Council approved Resolution 19‑47, authorizing Eagle Scout Merrick Fairchild to construct a Children's Memorial Garden at Walcott Park and directing city staff to supervise construction and assume ongoing maintenance of the installed vegetation and structures.

Merrick Fairchild told the council he is a Life Scout with Troop 1941 and presented a plan that incorporates existing park trees, new benches, paths, year‑long perennial plantings and maintenance gates. Fairchild said the design received Scouting America district approval in April 2024 and was reviewed and approved by the Parks and Recreation Committee in May 2025 before coming to the council.

City parks staff confirmed the park has an integrated sprinkler system and that Fairchild will supply materials to tie into that system; city staff will perform the installation and then take responsibility for maintenance of the garden plantings. "We do have an integrated sprinkler system in that park. Merrick will supply the materials to add on to that sprinkler system. We will do the installation of that component," a staff member said.

The council voted by roll call to approve the resolution; the transcript records aye votes from councilors and the mayor. Staff will supervise construction to ensure the finished project conforms to the approved design, after which the city’s parks department will assume long‑term maintenance responsibilities for irrigation and plant care.