The City of Oshawa has decided to cancel $1,850 in ‘nuisance’ fines that were imposed on the downtown Canadian Automotive Museum due to actions taken by the unhoused community on its property. This decision comes after local news coverage and a strong public reaction on social media.
Oshawa Regional Councillor Brian Nicholson announced that the fines against the museum are “not being pursued” following conversations with senior city staff. The staff plans to meet with museum officials on Friday to create a “coordinated response” to the situation.
“It’s been heartwarming to see the community coming together on this,” Canadian Automotive Museum Executive Director Alexandra Miller-Gerrard told INSAUGA Canada this week. She added that many residents have reached out personally to support the museum. “It’s been nice to see the support we’re getting from the community.”
“I think it speaks to the fact that people care deeply about the museum and want to see it continue to be a vibrant part of downtown Oshawa.”
This situation has sparked discussions about broader issues as municipal elections approach, and now there is a call for a “coordinated response” from various stakeholders regarding challenges facing downtown Oshawa.
“We hope that calling for a coordinated response by all stakeholders will address the root causes.”
The museum aims to collaborate with the city, Region of Durham, and local stakeholders on tackling problems like vandalism and trespassing that affect downtown businesses, including itself and nearby institutions like Masonic Hall.
The proposed measures include:
expanded downtown security coverage increased proactive by-law enforcement perimeter fencing, gates and access-control improvements additional exterior security cameras graffiti-resistant protective coatings support redesigning the museum parking lot as a safe and welcoming space
Miller-Gerrard mentioned that securing the parking lot with perimeter fencing would help restore confidence in viewing the museum as a safe place for visitors, allowing it to resume hosting outdoor events.
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“I’m hopeful that we can get back to using the parking lot for outdoor events. The museum has hosted several successful events there over time, and having appropriate access controls would make a significant difference in visitor confidence, allowing us to use that space more frequently,” she said. “We want everyone to enjoy the site.”
The situation worsened early Monday morning when someone smashed one of its ‘shatterproof’ main picture windows-marking this as another incident within a year.
Miller-Gerrard shared her feelings about being “overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support” since these events made headlines late last week. She expressed gratitude towards everyone who shared their story or offered help.
“Every email, membership, donation, share and kind message helps. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who believes in the Canadian Automotive Museum and wants to see it remain part of downtown Oshawa for generations to come,” she said in a post on the museum’s socials.
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