THUNDER BAY — City hall will be introducing a mandatory bag check for those attending council meetings, starting this Monday.
Krista Power, Director of Legislative Services & City Clerk told Newswatch, “we're seeing a lot of changes in other Canadian municipalities, and we're trying to enhance safety for everybody involved, not only members of council, members of city staff, but most of the public as well.”
She stated that city hall is taking a proactive measure to ensure due to the changing environment across the country.
“I think if you look at public events across the city, you go to a concert, you go to a hockey game, someone may be checking your bag. We're seeing the push for if you're visiting the US or major concerts, you're bringing in a clear bag into those facilities,” said Power.
What the public can now expect to see is a security guard visually inspecting bags – including purses, backpacks and briefcases – at the city hall entrance before attendees are allowed to enter the building.
“It's a visual bag check, so we'll be asking to take a look at their bag. We're looking for items that would cause harm to individuals, so we're not looking to confiscate things from people. We're looking to make sure that we can keep people safe in that space," said Power.
There will also be signage up for the new policy, said Power. "They can expect to see our procedure posted so they can take a look at it.”
She said those who do not want their bags checked can still watch meetings through the city’s website, Rogers TV or Tbaytel channels.