Council is not a fan of a proposed name change to a section of First Street South.

Jeff Hawley, the operations and infrastructure manager with the city presented a report to council Sept. 10 about changing the name of First Street South between Chipman Street and Park Street to “Jean Street” as part of the fourth phase of downtown revitalization.

Coun. Mort Goss did not mince words when he presented his thoughts on the matter. Goss mentioned the name should have to do with something with the Kenora Thistles as the current post office is where the old Thistle Arena used to be. Goss mentioned naming the street “Thistle Drive” would be more appropriate. The Kenora Thistles famously won the Stanley Cup in 1907 and remain the smallest community to ever win the Cup.

Since First Street South will connect Main Street to Park Street, the small section of street near the post office needs a new name. In Hawley’s report, Jean Street was meant to be in recognition of the lone business on that street, Warehouse One. Hawley said they had three options and after conferring with the business they landed on Jean Street.

An official resolution will be brought forth to council regarding the name change at the regular council meeting Sept. 17.