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Councillor praises police response to protesters

By Cecilia Nasmith

Councillor Aaron Burchat offered his thanks to the Cobourg Police Service and Bylaw Enforcement Officers for their measured response to the protesters who show up weekly to demonstrate against public-health measures during the pandemic.

“Members continue to be tied up with groups that continue to gather week after week,” Burchat said.

“Cobourg Police Service members went to great efforts to work with this group over the weeks, reaching out to engage in the four Es – engage, explain, educate, with the hope to have enforcement as a last resort.

“Saturday, Cobourg Police Service and Bylaw once again were able to disperse a gathering in a positive way,” he said.

“I applaud them for their conduct and professionalism as they continue to put themselves at risk for the health and safety of the community.”

Burchat also provided a report from the fire department, which continues to work closely with local retailers to ensure fire routes are kept clear during curbside pick-ups.

Offering year-to-date figures as of March 31, he said they have had 397 calls for service, 124 training activities and 162 inspections and prevention activities.

He also had figures for the building department for the month of March – 17 building permits issued (two of them for new dwelling units) representing a building value of some $2,439,000. Looking at year-to-date figures through the end of March, the department has issued 93 building permits (including 14 for new dwelling units) with a construction value of more than $9,287,000 and bringing in just under $179,000 in revenues.