1388 Bridge St W - Image from Google Maps
Note: Since first posting, myFM has spoken with Fire Chief Shawn Armstrong. Those quotes have now been added to the original article.
The Town of Greater Napanee has begun removing dozens of illegal trailers and structures from a property at 1388 Bridge Street West after obtaining a court injunction earlier this year.
myFM spoke with Fire Chief Shawn Armstrong who said they’re currently on-site removing the trailers and sheds. We asked for more information on their timeline.
The Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled on March 24 that the activities on the property were illegal and ordered the owner to remove occupants, more than 30 trailers and cinderblock structures, and all construction materials by June 1. When that deadline passed, the court authorized the Town to complete the work and recover the costs from the property owner.
“The Town of Greater Napanee is committed to ensuring that the law is applied equally and fairly, and that any violations are addressed in a manner that minimizes the burden on taxpayers,” Mayor Terry Richardson said.
Town officials said the property violated zoning, yard maintenance and property standards by-laws and raised serious fire and life safety concerns.
The Town worked with local social service agencies to help many occupants find alternative accommodations before the cleanup began.
Chief Administrative Officer Matthew Grant said the work will bring the property into compliance “at no cost to the taxpayer,” with all expenses billed to the owner under the court order.
Written by Emily Chatwood
1388 Bridge St W – Image from Google Maps
