Some Lake of Bays residents continue to fight the proposed discharge of firearms bylaw. At the regular meeting on Feb. 17, council looked at and edited the second draft. Resident James Maciver says this is more of a noise.
Maciver says this bylaw can’t be enforced and is a waste of tax payers’ dollars. The bylaw is aimed at recreational use of firearms and has no effect if you are lawfully hunting.
Zone Member & Club Services Liaison with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters Brian McRae says the federation understands there are certain circumstances when a bylaw like this is required.
McRae says there have been a number of improvements with the second draft, but there are still areas of concern based on feedback from members in the area.
Deputy Mayor Nancy Tapley says they are trying to come up with a bylaw that will protect public safety while at the same time not limit gun enthusiasts. Council made several amendments to the draft bylaw, including removing lot size restrictions outside the community designation area. Council will take another look at the bylaw in March.