This sounds like a great thing. Wiarton has Wiarton Willy, the U.S. uses groundhogs also to bring in a lot of tourists.
Wiarton alone brings in a lot of revenue and people sell memorabilia for the occasion.
I would like to suggest that you get a hold of Southern Bruce Peninsula and speak to the co-founder that started the Wiarton Willy craze. He is such an enthusiastic man. The township would remember his name. I met him once in Wiarton Willy Restaurant.

When he started, they laughed at him also, however, you have what it takes to make this happen.

Good luck with your endeavors. Sounds like a great idea. Never give up, you can achieve anything with the help of like-minded people.
Shirley Wilton - Ward 2 Councillor Candidate

Ric when you emailed me about having the Black Squirrel as London's mascot, I said "what an idea!", and I phoned you and congratulated. Fifty years ago a man in Wiarton Ontario came up with the idea of having a Groundhog as Wiarton's Mascot and it put Wiarton on the map. Ric I believe that the Black Squirrel as London's Mascot will be great for London. Your web page is one of the finest.

Ivan W. Kasiurak - Candidate For Mayor
Ivan's Autograph Collecting Company
Ivan's Motivational & Opportunity Company