Winnipeg Church Secures Higher Fencing Amid Safety Concerns

A North End church will not be installing a nine-foot fence topped with barbed wire but has received a compromise that allows for increased security. The St. John Cantius Church, located on Burrows Avenue, sought a variance to erect a tall chain-link fence with barbed wire surrounding its property and parking lot. The church argued that the heightened security was essential to protect its vulnerable parishioners from issues such as trespassing, vandalism, and theft.

City planners, however, rejected the original proposal, expressing concerns that the barbed wire would create a “fortress-like” atmosphere. Following this decision, the church appealed, seeking alternative solutions to enhance safety while addressing the city’s aesthetic concerns.

On October 20, 2023, the appeal committee ruled against the use of barbed wire but allowed for higher fencing options. The church is now permitted to construct a fence up to nine feet tall on the sides of the property and up to seven feet along the back, which faces Magnus Avenue. The decorative nature of the fence along Magnus Avenue was also specified by the committee, a requirement that the church has expressed concerns about due to budget constraints.

Richard Zendzian, a lifelong parishioner who attended the appeal hearing, voiced his satisfaction with the outcome. “I think I’m satisfied that we actually got the nine feet on the sides; that’s a good win for us, and the seven feet on the Magnus side, which is good because a lot of some of the problems do come from the Magnus side,” he stated.

The church had previously indicated that an ornamental fence was beyond its financial capabilities. The final design and materials for the fencing will now undergo a planning approval process at a city community committee, ensuring that both safety and aesthetic considerations are met.

As the St. John Cantius Church moves forward with its plans, it remains focused on providing a secure environment for its community while navigating the city’s regulations and budgetary limitations.