The mayor of Gananoque is proposing a new measure to deal with Quebec drivers who fail to pay parking tickets, suggesting that vehicles with Quebec plates could be immobilized until fines are settled.
Mayor John Beddows outlined the idea in a mayoral directive issued in August, asking town staff to study amendments to local parking bylaws. The proposal would allow for a tire clamp—commonly known as a “boot”—to be placed on Quebec-plated vehicles that receive parking tickets.
The directive also suggests creating a new category of parking ticket that would include the cost of both clamping and unclamping the vehicle.
The move has drawn criticism. Councillor David Osmond voiced concern in a Facebook post, warning the measure risks targeting Quebec tourists and could discourage them from visiting Gananoque, a popular destination along the St. Lawrence River.
Beddows, however, defended the idea, noting that Ontario does not have an agreement with Quebec for the enforcement of parking tickets. As a result, Quebec drivers who do not pay face no consequences once they leave the province.