District of Clearwater should have a handicapped parking bylaw – and enforce it, according to William Ellis.
The Clearwater Secondary School student made a presentation to town council during its March 24 meeting.
“Before my dad became disabled, I didn’t care as much,” Ellis said. “Now I realize how much difference a 
few steps can make. I think knowledge is a big key here.”
Having designated handicapped parking available for those who need it limits the strain, stress and pain they feel, he said.
“They’re our elderly. They’re our community and it’s our job to help,” said Ellis.
Councillor Shelley Sim commented that District of Clearwater has been working to increase the number of designate-d handicapped parking spots in the community.
However, the District does not yet have a bylaw officer to enforce them.
UNBC is helping to conduct a seniors mobility study here, she noted.
“A bylaw would be all well and good, but sometimes education helps,” Sim added.
Barry Banford said that it might already be an offense to use handicapped parking without a sticker. Possibly the police could enforce it or possibly other steps could be taken by the business owners.
Mayor John Harwood noted that it isn’t just the elderly who need designated handicapped parking spots. Sometimes young people need them as well, he said.
Council made no recommendations but it understood that staff will look into the matter.
