Unoccupied buildings offer clear and present danger

Opinion. The views expressed are the author’s own.

No matter where your neighborhood is located, people in the shadows will use abandoned buildings for their illegal purposes, be that a place to stay, a center for drug distribution or a place to shot up. This is a global problem folks.

Cities and Towns are full of empty unoccupied buildings. Some have become habitats for squatters, drug addicts and or criminals. A recent experience showed me just how dangerous such a situation can be.

Over several ago I had to go into the back of a house and retrieve my mischievous puppy who got away from me. It happens. I caught the little scamp but noticed something that concerned me. Behind a abandoned house was an atrium with broken windows. Inside it appeared that some people had been camping out. Laying about were sleeping bags, trash and over a dozen syringes, some still having what I could only assume was illicit drugs. That concerned me. During this past winter, as I walked by the house I could see young people looking out at me through the broken glass windows. This house had become a place to hang out and do what some young people do.

I wrote an email or two and sent it to the South Simcoe Police website describing what I had seen and waited for a response that did not come. I waited over two weeks hoping to see some action from the police force and resent the email but to others. An email to the Police Chief, the S.S. Police Board and most importantly to City Councilor Jonathan Scott. The police board administrator emailed back saying I sent it to the wrong email and that they would send it to the appropriate contact. Councilor Scott got back to me in two days. Several emails latter all within a week the Councilor explained that he had contacted the police but also the City Bylaw Office.

We have been told since 9/11 “If You See Something Unsavory, dangerous or criminal” you must report it! Speak Up!

There are many unoccupied buildings in our region, each offering illegal usage. The owners of these properties are legally obligated to maintain the structures and keep them safe for any possibility. The owners of this property responded responsibly. Thank you.

Our future generations are precious to us. Children will be children, often not thinking about the consequences of their actions. I have seen syringes in parks, play grounds and on school property. If you see a syringe any where put it in the garbage carefully or report it to the authorities. You are morally obligated to do so.

The protection of our community are in your hands, but also in the hands of all Our Citizens.

Steven Kaszab lives in Bradford, Ont.