For the past few days the subject of forcing downtown Oshawa institutions to ensure security has been as big a topic as the upcoming municipal elections, if not more.
Yet, the City of Oshawa and Durham police – the two institutions primary to ensuring a safe and secure downtown – have been silent on the issue, at least so far.
Durham Post approached both institutions late Wednesday for their comments. Neither had responded by the end of yesterday (Thursday).
It is not clear why the city or the police are unable to secure downtown Oshawa – and if specialised institutions like the police and the city cannot ensure security, how do they expect private not-for-profit institutions like the Canadian Automotive Museum (CAM) or the Masonic Hall to do it?
CAM has thrice been penalized with fines totalling $2,750, and the Masonic Hall has received a nuisance violation notice from the city.
It is believed that CAM officials will be meeting Oshawa staff today (Friday October 9) to discuss the fines and issues at stake in downtown Oshawa.
Specialized Tech For Downtown Crime
The police recently got an all terrain vehicle (ATV) specifically to fight crime in downtown Oshawa parks and valleys. This is in addition to foot and bicycle patrols as well as cruisers on duty.
Durham police has also acquired advanced drone technology and a multimillion dollar Air4 helicopter.
It has plans to expand its Oshawa campus to a 400,000 square feet site that will house a modern training facility, Central East Division replacement, and a dedicated Police Headquarters.
Apart from the expanded site, for which the money has already been allocated, the police have a $1.1 billion 10-year strategic plan to modernize and improve policing across Durham.
Despite investments, security issues in downtown Oshawa have been historic, and seem to have now escalated even further—going by statements made by institutions that call downtown Oshawa their home.