At the time of the Grand Prix and festival season, and following Projet Montréal’s proposal to open bars until 6 a.m. or later, one has to wonder who benefits from this nuisance industry. Perhaps we see this as a way of positioning the city of Montreal as an entertainment destination par excellence. Do we really want to become the Amsterdam of North America? Do we really want to bet on this type of rather undesirable tourists? This situation will inevitably favor the development of a vice ecosystem with “extra” massage businesses and sexual exploitation, sale of drugs, frequentation of street gangs and violent events. Unwanted pests are always on the lookout for such mediums to grow.
On the net, we, residents, only see inconveniences and more expenses for the community. Increased costs for patrol officers and SPVM interventions, increased costs for garbage collection, increased costs for cleaning dirt and broken glass, increased costs following broken street furniture, etc. There would be no more municipal taxes collected.
In an economic study by MTL 24/24, two case studies are cited with benefits and costs. Nowhere are the costs paid by local residents considered. How many people would be affected? Has the number of residents around large bars and festive areas been assessed? Has the increase in sleepless nights of residents living on the bar border been assessed? Nights cut short by half and persistent sleep disorders are not counted.
The City can’t even enforce its own bylaws in this situation. Loud music noise complaints remain inconsequential. In fact, at night, the police only prioritize violent events, and there are no noise inspectors able to put an end to the nuisance. The Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux seems impotent and is subject to the calends of the courts that are too overwhelmed. Citizens are reduced to turning to the Superior Court to seek an injunction to stop these nocturnal musical nuisances.
Finally, young families are encouraged to settle in Montreal. We have schools, CPEs, our local shops, our theaters, etc. Cheer. Now we just want to be able to sleep normally.