Canadians with property in Point Roberts are signing an online petition in the hopes of being granted access to the American peninsula to perform routine maintenance.
Aimed at government officials on both sides of the border, the change.org petition started by Kevin McIntosh says many Canadians own cottages and boats in Point Roberts they have been unable to check on since the Canada-U.S. border was closed to non-essential travel three months ago.
The petition states: “I propose a special dispensation allowing Canadians access to their property, boats and animals in Point Roberts, WA to perform maintenance, removal or care functions under controlled conditions, i.e. no contact with local residents for business or pleasure purposes.”
As of Monday morning, 1,162 people had signed the petition.
McIntosh, who believes it’s fairly likely the border closure will be extended, stated he’s been unable to maintain or remove his boat moored at the Point Roberts Marina. He said not only has he been unable to enjoy the use of his boat, but the downside of prolonged inattention could be needless environmental damage to the marina environment.
Many who have signed the petition own cottages in Point Roberts and worry that without regular maintenance they will fall into disrepair. They raise concerns over rats and raccoons causing damage to vacant buildings as well as the possibility of leaks and other issues. There are also worries about insurance not being valid if structures are unattended for months on end.
Many suggest that crossing the border to check on property should be deemed essential travel so long as those who cross only go to and from their properties.
