A road allowance is not a restroom.
However, confusion, or a lack of public courtesy, has pushed the County of Wetaskiwin to plan to purchase a portable outhouse for the main boat launch on the south side of Buck Lake.
“You’re getting individuals using the trees to relieve themselves,” said CAO Frank Coutney.
Coun. Lyle Seely says he is getting complaints from residents in the vicinity finding toilet paper in their yards and bushes. “Something needs to be done. It’s a pretty bad situation.”
During council’s July 18 meeting, councillors directed administration to purchase and install a portable outhouse and chain link fence on the 5 Street E road allowance for patrons using the boat launch.
The cost to rent an outhouse for the first year was $7,940 and $5,490 for the second year. To purchase it was $7,665 for the first year and $4,590 for the second year.
Geoff Lynch, director of leisure and community services says there are concerns of tipping and vandalism, which is why a tall, tight, chain link fence that is locked at night is also needed.
“We’re trying to be proactive towards that,” said Coutney.
Lynch says vandals often target the Buck Lake Park restrooms, located further south along Lakeshore Drive/Range Road 61A.
Coun. Garry Dearing says he is concerned about who would look after the portable outhouse. Coutney says one option to explore is possibly having the duty given to the Buck Lake Park attendant.
Lynch added there are available funds in a recreation zone reserve.