Town to explore options for tackling Parklane Drive noise and driving complaints

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Town of Strathmore council has directed administration to investigate potential solutions to reported noise complaints arising from activities taking place at Kinsmen Park. 

John Trofimuk, representing the senior community in Lambert Village, wrote a letter to Council and was allowed to speak during a public delegation at the Sept. 20 regular meeting about his grievances. 

“Every night, we listen to squealing tires, loud vehicles, it sounds like most of them do not have mufflers, there is horn honking going on, and this goes on – it starts any time after supper and goes until midnight, sometimes even later,” he said. “In the summertime, we can’t even open our windows to get fresh air because it is too noisy in the evening, and sitting (outside) is no fun. Because of the noise, you can’t talk, listen to music or anything. It is disgusting.”

Trofimuk added complaints about drivers recklessly speeding down Parklane Drive, noting not only the nuisance of such behaviour, but also inherent risk to both the drivers and surrounding residents. 

It was also clarified the nuisance drivers had previously been exhibiting the same behaviours in the lot now occupied by the Town Hall, prior to its construction. 

“We are here to enjoy our retirement, and that is hard to do. We listen to it every single night, not just certain nights. I do not know what this town can do about it,” said Trofimuk. “Lots of times, I have phoned the RCMP and they will come, but by the time they get here, they (the offenders) are gone … the RCMP try to do their best, but they just can’t (solve the problem).”

Coun. Melissa Langmaid presented the motion to direct town administration to prepare a report outlining potential remedial actions to address the noise and speed complaints along Parklane Drive and within the parking lot surrounding the Kinsmen Park pavilion. 

Coun. Debbie Mitzner suggested a request to administration to include in their report a cost estimate for a gate to the parking lot which may restrict the hours anyone may be able to access the area.

Town of Strathmore CAO Kevin Scoble said during the meeting, administration has been working with local RCMP, and solution options which will be presented in the report will be inclusive of police input on the issue.

Administration has been directed to return to council with a report to be reviewed at the Oct. 11 regular meeting of council.