A Greater Napanee councillor is raising red flags after learning the Quinte Detention Centre will have no perimeter fence during its expansion. At a May 27 council meeting, Mike Schenk expressed concern over the removal of fencing at the Richmond Boulevard facility, which will soon house over 300 inmates following the addition of 66 new beds.
Schenk said the lack of fencing poses a public safety issue, especially with the jail located beside busy Highway 401. Town staff confirmed they have limited authority to enforce fencing under Ontario’s Planning Act. New correctional facilities often no longer use perimeter fences.
Council was told inmate outdoor areas in the new section will be surrounded by building walls and a solid barrier. Municipal staff have requested more details from Ontario Corrections about the decision. Council expects to revisit the issue in a future meeting after reviewing new information from the province.
Written by Emily Chatwood
