The Town of Minto has appointed three members of its public works staff as bylaw enforcement officers for the purpose of enforcing its winter parking bylaw.
Chief building official and bylaw enforcement officer Terry Kuipers told council the measure will allow staff to issue parking tickets to vehicles violating the prohibition against on-street parking during the winter months. Tickets can be issued by staff on patrol in the early morning hours, before plowing begins, he explained.
“Historically, public works have placed warning notices on vehicles that are parked on the streets overnight,” said Kuipers. However, he noted this became less effective as there was little follow-up in terms of enforcement.
“Enforcing the parking bylaw is not a priority for the OPP and, as such, they only respond to complaints and only as time permits.”
While town staff will issue the tickets, the OPP will retain the revenue, but also the responsibility for prosecution, “which definitely costs more than the $30 tickets,” Kuipers pointed out.
Kuipers said public works staff was eager to take on the responsibility, as it will make their winter work easier.
“The intent is to put an end to the practice of parking on the street overnight and impeding snow removal.”
Council approved the recommendation to appoint pubic works director Brian Hansen, roads foreman Mike McIssac and roads lead hand Mike Orth as bylaw officers.
