Winkler City Council is saying no to the establishment of pawnshops within the community.

 

A recent letter to council indicated there is interest from at least one individual to establish this type of business.
 
Within the city's zoning by-law the current definition of a retail store doesn't permit the development of pawnshops.
 
Mayor Martin Harder says council feels there's no particular need for a pawnshop.
 
Harder adds concerns were also raised about the link between pawnshops and increased crime.
 
He notes information received from other police services indicate pawnshops promote theft and fencing of materials because of the lure of instant cash.
 
On top of that, harder adds information received from police services outside of Winkler indicate a significantly increased workload once pawnshops are established.
 
Winnipeg has seven police officers assigned to pawnshop monitoring within the city.
 
Harder notes there are other ways city residents can access cash quickly without resorting to selling property to a pawnshop, including pay day loan services.

 

- Wednesday, June 24th 2009 -