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Fernie increases homeowner fines for wildlife attractants
By Erin Knutson
City of Fernie council May 23 voted unanimously to increase fines for homeowners creating wildlife attractants.
Council was urged to adopt a two-tier solution that would allow for a first and subsequent offence fine annually, starting at $250 and moving to $500 for offenders up to a maximum of $750 per season to be reset the following calendar year, according to Fernie Project Engineer Joanna Line.
A third recommendation of $1,000 fines for subsequent offences was also tabled.
“The current Municipal Ticket Information (MTI) bylaw fee of $50 is charged to anyone who sets out attractants in a manner that attracts wildlife. There is no escalation for subsequent infractions – this includes accumulation, placement, storage or collection of wildlife attractants in a manner that attracts wildlife,” said her staff report.
Following deliberation amongst council on whether fines were harsh enough to be effective or too steep financially to be fair or feasible for administration, it was decided to begin with the two-tiered approach and assess after a sufficient amount of time to determine the efficacy of the change.
“I think it’s efficient to deploy this and see how it works,” said Mayor Nic Milligan.
The fine was updated from its $50 penalty with no escalation to the two-tiered approach that the city hopes will deter individuals but not create undue financial hardship.
“I support the two-tiered approach. These are challenging financial times, and Canadians are struggling – $500 is quite punitive,” said Coun. Tracey Audia Kelly.
Other areas, in wildlife corridors like Sparwood and Canmore, Alberta, have adopted a three-tiered approach to prevent human-wildlife encounters that have been effective, according to Line’s report.
“By encouraging residents to limit access to attractants, protection of our wildlife is improved.”
e-KNOW file photo
e-KNOW
