Clearview council is granting a request for a no-stopping zone on Huron Street in Stayner in an attempt to diffuse tensions between residents and parents dropping off students at the neighbourhood dance studio.
Glen Morby made a deputation to council on Jan. 9 outlining his concerns about the unruly nature of the drop-offs, which happen every half hour or so on weeknights.
Since The Danceroom relocated from main street to a more spacious facility at 236 Huron Street, Morby says vehicles park along the side of the street and at the foot of the driveways on the west side of the street.
The west side of Huron Street is zoned residential, while the east side is zoned commercial.
Councillor Shawn Davidson, admitting that he is also a dance parent, said the dance studio has made attempts to educate parents about the parking issues and has asked that people use overflow parking south and north of the studio, but ultimately the owners have no control over the parents and their behavior.
The owners and council members support the residents’ request for signs indicating a no-stopping zone between Charles Street and Superior Street.
“They are victims of their own success,” said councillor Connie Leishman. “They have done a great job of promoting their business. I can’t see how they can hogtie the parents to do what they want.”
A bylaw is forthcoming with the details of the sign implementation. Depending on when classes take place, a specific timeframe may be set for the no-stopping zone.
Clerk Pamela Fettes, who oversees the bylaw department, said once the signs are in place the township’s bylaw officer will work to educate the drivers dropping off students and the bylaw will be enforced as resources permit.