Most people would love to enjoy a drink in one of our beautiful lakeside parks.

And South Etobicoke residents and businesses say they support a proposal calling on the city to allow people to drink beer and wine in the parks this summer.

Ward 12 councillor Josh Matlow plans to table a motion at an infrastructure and environment committee meeting on April 28 that proposes a pilot project to allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages lower than 15 per cent alcohol in parks and on beaches with bathroom facilities.

Matlow, in a letter to the committee, said the pilot would run from May 21 to October 31. During that time, drinking beer, cider and wine in parks and on beaches would be permitted between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m.

He said the move would give people who can’t afford drinks at a restaurant or do not have outdoor spaces at home a safe option to drink outside during the pandemic.

“As we approach the second summer of the pandemic, public health officials recognize the reality that, especially after a year in isolation, people need to socialize,” Matlow wrote. “It is up to us to create environments where those connections with friends and family can be made in the safest way possible.”

He said by allowing public drinking doesn’t mean people will drink to excess, and loosening rules would allow enforcement officials to focus attention on offences such as littering, excessive noise and public urination.

He said last summer Council recognized the importance of being able to enjoy a drink outside by loosening restrictions on patios with the successful CafeTO program, which will be brought back this year. The program was successful for South Etobicoke bars and restaurants.

“Some residents will choose to enjoy a drink with loved ones in their backyards or on their balconies,” Matlow said. “These residents should not be left with unsafe options such as gathering indoors or, like many over the past year, choosing to drink illegally in parks.”

He said his motion seeks to increase and focus enforcement on problem behaviours that are already occurring by freeing up resources while loosening restrictions for responsible adults who wish to responsibly and safely enjoy a beer or glass of wine.

Cities like Montreal, London, Paris, and Sydney permit residents to drink in parks. Vancouver approved drinking in nine parks last year with many more scheduled to be opened up for alcohol this year.

He is requesting that as many parks and beaches have a bathroom facility, including portable toilets and to prohibit drinking alcohol near playgrounds and sports fields.

“This has to change,” Matlow said. “We don’t want people congregating indoors for a drink during a pandemic. Many live in apartments without a balcony.”

Chris Korwin-Kuczynski, Chair of the Lakeshore Village BIA, said he supports the proposal to get people outdoors with a drink if it is done properly.

“We have so many great parks in the community,” he said. “This can work if it is done in a responsible manner.”