An Oshawa museum is currently facing fines amounting to nearly $3,000 from the city due to reported “nuisance activity” occurring on its premises. However, the Canadian Automotive Museum’s executive director and curator, Alexandra Miller-Gerrard, contends that the museum requires assistance rather than penalties from the city to ensure its safety.
The city issued a warning in June 2025, claiming that unhoused individuals were engaging in disruptive behavior such as loitering, fighting, shouting, and littering on the museum’s grounds, thus breaching a city bylaw. Subsequently, the museum has received seven fines totaling $2,750 since September 15.
Expressing concerns, some experts argue that penalizing the museum, which focuses on historic vehicle exhibitions, does not address the root issue of homelessness within the community. The city suggested that the museum could adhere to city regulations by implementing consistent security measures.
In response, the museum has enhanced its security infrastructure by upgrading exterior lighting, increasing the number and quality of surveillance cameras, and intensifying staff monitoring of the parking lot and camera footage. Despite these efforts, Miller-Gerrard disclosed that the museum lacks the financial means to pay the fines, hire full-time security, and install a new perimeter fence, emphasizing the necessity for increased city support.
The museum has called upon the community to unite in efforts to revitalize downtown Oshawa. Miller-Gerrard conveyed the museum board’s desire for a reassessment of the fines, financial support for additional security measures, anti-graffiti protective coatings, and initiatives to enhance the parking lot’s appeal.
Acknowledging ongoing challenges such as vandalism, drug use, loitering, and petty crimes on the property, Miller-Gerrard emphasized the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to find sustainable solutions for the benefit of Oshawa residents.
The museum is scheduled to meet with city officials to discuss potential resolutions. Tyler Frederick, an associate professor at Ontario Tech University, highlighted the need for cities to address homelessness comprehensively rather than solely relying on enforcement actions. Frederick emphasized the importance of collaborative dialogues to enhance safety in downtown Oshawa and create a more welcoming environment for all visitors.
Miller-Gerrard underscored the museum’s commitment to providing a safe and vibrant experience for all patrons, expressing a vision for the museum to be an integral part of the lively downtown Oshawa community.
