The City of Winnipeg says in order to convince more drivers to move their vehicles during residential snow clearing, they need to hit them harder in the pocket book.
The Public Works Committee voted to double fines from $150 to $300 during the Know Your Zone operations. Early payments would double to $150 as well.
The committee heard 5,000 tickets are handed on during each snow clearing event and that there could be even more if the Parking Authority had the resources to hand out additional fines.
But St. Boniface Coun. Dan Vandal voted against the measure.
“We have red light cameras. We have speed cameras. We have the new school policy, which is resulting in quite a few fines,” said Vandal. "People are fined out.”
He said Winnipeggers need more time to adjust to the Know Your Zone rules.
On Tuesday, the committee heard 5,000 tickets are handed on during each snow clearing event and that there could be even more if the Parking Authority had the resources to hand out additional fines.
“The reality is that they know there (are) more calls from the crews out there for vehicles in the way,” said Brad Sacher, director of public works.
The committee also passed other changes to overall snow clearing. Zone J in St. Boniface-St. Vital will be split in two to ensure better service. The city is also pledging to improve snow removal on some busy sidewalks.
Motorist Caity Poole lives in an apartment and has to park on the street. When a residential snow-clearing operation is in effect, she has to search for a spot a few blocks away.
“It’s hard when the whole zone is affected because there is nowhere else to park,” said Poole.
She said she’s been ticketed in the past for not moving her car and isn’t pleased to hear fines will be increasing.
“I think they’re trying to make a statement and punish people who have no other choice,” she said.
But, she said the boost in fines would likely get drivers’ attention.
“I think it will definitely work. I just don’t know if it’s the right way,” she said.
- with a report from Jeff Keele
