LETTER: Citizen says visitors are scoffing at rules, calls for action

OrilliaMatters welcomes letters to the editor. Send your letter to [email protected]. The following letter is in reference to the number of out-of-town visitors, and visitor numbers in general at Couchiching Beach on Sunday.
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I went to Couchiching Beach on Sunday for a swim. The boat launch parking lot was almost full with many out-of-town vehicles, so I proceeded to the secondary lot, quite full as well.

At the beach, on my way to the water, I weaved through the people and tents on the beach laying beside the "No Stopping or Sitting - Water Access Only" signs.

This is not the responsible leadership Orillians need to protect us from COVID. This sends a terrible message that laws are made to be broken - that Orillia is open season for region hoppers to come with no worry of any consequences.

The signs are just more patronizing rather than protection we need from our elected officials. Something to remember in future elections.

Rules are useless without enforcement. Orillians are not protected without enforcement.

This ongoing issue is an embarrassment to our city as people come from all over and scoff at our rights to safety and use of our own amenities.

These are difficult times but our leaders need to step up and give us the protection we are entitled to. Enough is enough.

Rick Lockman
Orillia

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