ABERFOYLE – Puslinch council has approved the costs associated with the implementation of a crossing guard at a crosswalk in Aberfoyle across Brock Road.
At a July 14 council meeting, council unanimously voted to direct staff to implement this added level of service for the beginning of the school year in September with one crossing guard being hired to work the Brock Road crossing.
Council had originally approved the hiring of a crossing guard at Aberfoyle Public School at an April 21 meeting after a deputation presented to council on the subject.
Council had directed staff to report back with costs associated with the hiring of a crossing guard.
Many parents of students at the school have felt uneasy about dropping off and picking up their children due to concerns around dangerous driving within the school zone.
The crossing guard will work two hours per day: one each morning and one each afternoon. A backup crossing guard will also be hired to cover sick time and vacation time.
Guards are hard to find
A report from township staff noted two common challenges municipalities have often faced after approving the use of crossing guards: recruitment and retention, as well as consistent service.
Due to a low number of hours and undesirable weather conditions, it can be difficult for municipalities to fill crossing guard positions.
The report states that the estimated annual cost is $10,046.
This amount includes payroll, equipment, and clothing, and was not budgeted for in the township’s 2021 operating budget.
“This is a great added service to our community, and I’m sure it will be very well received,” councillor Jessica Goyda said.
“I’m also glad to see that there was consideration for the backup and other contingencies.”
Councillor Sara Bailey added “This is excellent news, and I look forward to seeing how it plays out and who will be standing there.”
