Regina moves closer to allowing booze in public parks

Booze in public parks is closer to becoming a reality in Regina.

On Wednesday, the city’s executive committee carried a motion for a new bylaw 6-4. If approved at council next week, the new bylaw allowing drinking in 12 specific parks around the city would come into effect at the end of July.

City manager Niki Anderson said the parks were chosen with the idea of spreading them throughout the city, while also meeting certain requirements.

But the motion was met with skepticism and opposition from Ward 4 Coun. Lori Bresciani, as well as Ward 7 Coun. Terina Nelson.

“I’m very very disgusted in the fact that we’re spending time talking about something that’s not going to benefit our city at all, or bring any kind more economic benefit into our city,” Nelson said.

Nelson also voiced concerns about safety.

Ward 2’s Bob Hawkins voiced strong support for the program during Wednesday’s meeting.

“There’s no proof that this is a program that will impair the safety of children, that will lead to more drunk driving, that will cause domestic violence or will aggravate the addiction crisis,” Hawkins said.

“All of that is an exaggeration and is without foundation. I do worry that we will actually encourage illegal behaviour and irresponsible behaviour by not allowing citizens a legitimate opportunity for a little bit of enjoyment.

“There’s nothing wrong with a little bit of responsible fun, and this program – as carefully designed by the administration – permits just that.”

When asked by Bresciani, Anderson said external stakeholders had been consulted about the program.

Those stakeholders include Regina Police Service, Provincial Capital Commission, Regina Catholic Schools, Regina Public Schools and the Regina Downtown Business Improvement District, as well as Regina’s Warehouse District and its associated members.

Anderson said the stakeholders were all in support of a careful implementation and incorporating feedback on how best to move forward.

Wascana Park is not being considered, as it falls under the jurisdiction of the Provincial Capital Commission.