An Oshawa museum is currently facing fines amounting to nearly $3,000 from the city due to reported “nuisance activity” on its premises. The Canadian Automotive Museum, led by Alexandra Miller-Gerrard, received an order in June 2025 citing issues with loitering, fighting, yelling, and littering by unhoused individuals on the property, which was deemed in violation of a city bylaw.
Following the order, the museum has incurred seven fines totaling $2,750 from the city since September 15. Concerns have been raised that penalizing the museum, known for its display of historic vehicles, does not effectively address the underlying homelessness issue.
To comply with city bylaws, the museum has enhanced security measures by improving exterior lighting, upgrading security cameras, and increasing staff monitoring of the parking lot and CCTV footage. However, Miller-Gerrard emphasized that the museum cannot afford the fines or the expenses for full-time security and a new perimeter fence, urging the city for more assistance.
In a recent Instagram post, the museum called for collaborative efforts with the community to revitalize downtown Oshawa, seeking a review and removal of fines, additional funding for security measures, anti-graffiti protection, and improvements to the parking area to create a welcoming environment.
Miller-Gerrard highlighted incidents of vandalism, including broken windows, theft of copper from the building, and frequent graffiti, along with witnessing drug use and petty crimes on the property. The museum has initiated dialogues with city officials and regional police to address downtown activities.
Tyler Frederick, an Ontario Tech University criminology and justice program associate professor, noted the challenge faced by cities in managing visible homelessness through bylaw enforcement rather than addressing root causes. He emphasized the importance of collaborative discussions to enhance safety in Oshawa’s downtown core, echoing the museum’s commitment to creating a safe and vibrant space for all visitors.