The City of Barrie has taken another step in cracking down on illegal drug dispensaries downtown. On Tuesday, the city confirmed changes to zoning by-laws that will make it easier to prevent and enforce compliance for downtown properties with shops that are operating in a gray area, or outside the law entirely. The city says it will allow staff and police to tackle illegal drug dispensaries closer to their source, by targeting the property owners who are leasing to them. “Our message is simple: if you’re operating outside the law, Barrie is not the place to do it. Illegal businesses have no place in our city,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. Echoing a familiar stance, he says “we will enforce the law, protect our neighbourhoods, and hold property owners accountable for enabling illegal activity.” This comes in a continued series of actions by the mayor that date back to late April, when the mayor described downtown drug activity as ‘lawlessness’ He outlined a zero-tolerance approach that included calls-for-action from the county, province, and feds. RELATED: Barrie mayor to shut down illegal dispensaries The strong enforcement measures and calls to action have inevitably made their way from city hall to Barrie Police HQ. In a statement, Barrie Police Chief Rich Johnston says in part: “by addressing illegal businesses, we can help ensure the safety of all those who work, visit or live downtown.” Reiterating familiar sentiment, saying: “we know there are many factors that can impact whether someone feels safe, even when crime is concentrated or isolated, and our approach balances compassion for all, with accountability for those who are breaking the law.” Council heard public feedback in an early June meeting, which included pushback from one of the dispensary owners. The city confirms it has already begun proactive enforcement measures, including first notices of violation and fines to culpable property owners. Areas of concern previously highlighted by the city include 1 Dunlop Street East, 84 Dunlop Street East and 99 Dunlop Street East. The city says enforcement action will continue until they comply. Those fines are expected to increase until compliance is met. The City of Barrie has remained under a State of Emergency since September 9th, of last year in regard to homelessness. This is a developing story. We will provide additional updates as they become available.
