Oshawa considering opening main floor City Hall washroom to public, 24/7

Opening up City Hall washrooms to the public may seem like a small thing, but to many homeless and disadvantaged folk in Oshawa’s downtown the decision could be a very big deal.

After years of concerns raised by residents about the lack of public washrooms in the city centre, the City is considering opening its main floor washroom, across from the security desk, to the general public 24/7.

Councillor Rosemary McConkey had originally raised the motion and said she received some pushback because of cost (a second security guard may need to be hired) but she remains convinced it is a much-needed progression for the city.

“It’s very disappointing that (Council) doesn’t seem to want to take responsibility for this.”

Councillor Jane Hurst did move the motion at Monday’s Development Services Committee meeting and the issue will be on the docket for the May 24 Council meeting.