Reinstate Tobermory Summer OPP Detachment
I’d like to echo the Stewarts’ letter “Managing Access to Public Areas” in the last issue. Like them, we are constantly disturbed by rowdyism (usually alcohol fuelled), campfires and fireworks at the Gap and the Lighthouse. It is particularly annoying when it starts up at 1 or 2 am. We are faced with trespassing, litter and vandalism.
Back in June I made several constructive suggestions to our bylaw enforcement officials but they went unanswered. For example, I recognize that many of our visitors simply don’t know that fireworks are illegal except under limited circumstances – so let’s ensure they are informed. Signs at the Gap and the Lighthouse should make it clear that campfires, fireworks and alcohol are forbidden and that there is a noise bylaw in effect after 11 pm. I would go so far as to have the signs say the areas are closed after 11 pm.
Owners of short term accommodations could help by ensuring their customers are properly informed.
It’s time our council negotiate with the OPP for a resumption of the summer detachment we used to have in Tobermory. Calling the police at midnight because of rowdyism is pointless – they have a huge area to cover and the miscreants are long gone by the time they get here. A major tourist destination like this needs full time policing in the summer.
And finally, we must do something about Big Tub Road and parking at the Lighthouse. The road is inadequate for the volume and speed of the traffic on it – it’s only a matter of time before a pedestrian is seriously hurt – or worse. Cars turn off Highway 6 and accelerate up the hill at speeds well over the 50 km/hr limit and now there are shuttle buses as well. Parking should be forbidden anywhere on the road and limited to the spaces actually at the Lighthouse. Local residents and their visitors have to run a gauntlet of frustrated drivers, poorly parked vehicles and even verbal abuse.
Tobermory isn’t going to get any less popular so let’s take remedial action now.
Bill Caulfeild-Browne
Tobermory
