August18, 2010

OPENLETTER TO THE MAYOR AND ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS OF THE CITY OF BARRIE

DearSirs and Madam:

Wecontinue to experience and hear complaints involving excessive noise, drunkenrowdiness, vandalism, street fighting, rape, and most recently a fatalstabbing, with a direct correlation to the high concentration of licensedestablishments in the downtown core. In spite of the fine efforts of our citypolice, we feel the environment this creates is not in the best interest of theconstituents of our city.

It isour conclusion that we have reached or surpassed a sustainable number of liquorlicenses for late night bars and clubs in our city centre, with several pendingapplications and possible new ones on the horizon. 

 As a prudent response, we respectfully request,that City Council at the next available sitting, pass a resolution placing amoratorium on any and all licensed premises being established or expanded inBarrie for a minimum of six months.

 During this time, we encourage public debate andthe formation of a task force consisting of citizens, police, businesses, licensing/regulatorybodies and city official and staff to explore the vision of the entertainmentdistrict and establish a mutually acceptable plan of action. 

Wefeel it is imperative that this be attended to immediately to defer current andfuture pending applications until a rational and acceptable resolution isdeveloped.

Webelieve your immediate attention to this matter will be appreciated by andbeneficial to all the citizens of Barrie.

On behalf of the BarrieDowntown Neighbourhood Association