As a follow-up to constituents who have reached out to me with concerns about individuals soliciting at congested entrances to two Oshawa shopping centres, yesterday I emailed Durham Region Police:
Good afternoon Sergeant Melnick,
I spoke with Sergeant Mounsteven this morning about complaints I have received concerning individuals soliciting money from drivers exiting the Costco parking area onto Ritson Rd. N. and drivers leaving the Smart Centre plaza on Taunton Rd. E. in Oshawa.
I understand that the Safe Street Act Section 3(2) is enforced by police and ask that DRP give attention to this problem before things worsen.
There is serious concern that the distraction these individuals present at these busy locations may soon cause an accident.
Thanking you in advance for your attention to the above.
Please note: when I posted the above on my Facebook page today, some said 'shame' want to reprimand me for being out of touch with the homeless problem. This particular issue is not to antagonize or be against helping the homeless. But, anyone putting themselves and others in unsafe road locations is dangerous and unlawful. Simply put, the issue is: busy exits from busy parking lots onto busy streets are no place for anyone to be at a driver's window.
Good afternoon Sergeant Melnick,
I spoke with Sergeant Mounsteven this morning about complaints I have received concerning individuals soliciting money from drivers exiting the Costco parking area onto Ritson Rd. N. and drivers leaving the Smart Centre plaza on Taunton Rd. E. in Oshawa.
I understand that the Safe Street Act Section 3(2) is enforced by police and ask that DRP give attention to this problem before things worsen.
There is serious concern that the distraction these individuals present at these busy locations may soon cause an accident.
Thanking you in advance for your attention to the above.
Please note: when I posted the above on my Facebook page today, some said 'shame' want to reprimand me for being out of touch with the homeless problem. This particular issue is not to antagonize or be against helping the homeless. But, anyone putting themselves and others in unsafe road locations is dangerous and unlawful. Simply put, the issue is: busy exits from busy parking lots onto busy streets are no place for anyone to be at a driver's window.