Fencing at Axep former store

Bob Dubois or someone else may mention to you that the area behind the burned-out Axep store on Bannantyne is dangerous, with a deep hole and much debris, and is only protected by the low fences usually used for traffic control.

I just wanted to let you know that I am very pleased with the response of Councillor Marc Touchette and the Commission de la sécurité publique in this matter, so far.

I noticed that the site was completely open on Tuesday night April 17, and was told by parents that children were playing near. I brought this to the attention of M. Touchette on Wed AM.

Wednesday lunchtime I received this notice: "I have sent our security patrol to check all the fencing and the security installations on the former Axep store location. I shall have a report soon this afternoon ( I will be presiding the Commission de la sécurité publique, so we may be in a position to take action quickly if required upon the conclusions found in that report )"

By M. Touchette's promise of prompt action, and by his quick reply, I was able to reassure the concerned parents, teachers and administration at their Governing Board Thursday night that the matter was being actively investigated, and that I expected some response shortly. The barriers were installed on Friday. Some parents and other citizens remained concerned that, while the fencing now in place inhibits casual access, it is easily “contournable” and they wonder if there is a safer and more permanent solution envisioned for the near future. While no doubt the best solution is to have the buildings rebuilt quicky, the borough has said they will look into better ways to prevent entry into this hazardous site in the meanwhile. The borough reacted quickly and efficiently to a dangerous situation with 2 schools nearby (Riverview and ND de la Garde). All Verduners should be pleased with their reaction.