The cost of the freedom convoy is now expected to cost Ottawa City Council about $ 37 million, according to an up-to-date estimate by city officials, who are also struggling to keep track of the payment of thousands of dollars. week-related parking violations. -Long protest.
Downtown streets were blocked for several weeks as thousands of people gathered around Parliament Hill to protest, from pandemic-related warrants to general contempt for the federal government. Police in riot gear stormed a rally on Friday, removing hundreds of protesters by truck.
A new city report, which will be presented to the community services and protection committee on June 16, says local taxpayers would be hit by about $ 310,000 in towing costs for 110 vehicles.
The city spent more than $ 400,000, but has only recovered about $ 80,000 from vehicle owners.
The report also said local officials issued 3,812 tickets for parking violations during the convoy protest totaling $ 320,545. So far, only 42 percent of tickets have been paid for.
According to the city, 318 provincial infraction warnings were also issued for violations ranging from the use of a sound reproduction device on a road to causing / allowing unusual noises that disturb residents in a refrigerated vehicle. unlicensed mobile phone, as well as non-compliance with COVID. -19 public health orders.
The total value of these notices is difficult to estimate, the city says, as each ticket has a different fine amount.
The City Council says it is difficult to estimate the total value of these tickets because each has a different set fine. Among those notices, the report said less than a third were paid.
Some of the fines have been overturned or withdrawn, while others are being challenged and will go to trial, the City Council added.