TRURO, N.S. — Avery Withrow is spending a lot of time in Truro’s outdoors, both for work and pleasure.
Withrow became the town’s new bylaw officer on July 2.
“A lot of my work is public awareness and education,” he said. “I enjoy dealing with people and I enjoy being out in the public, so this is a good fit. The main objective is to provide a safe community.”
Withrow grew up in Truro and after graduating from university he worked at an environmental testing facility for the Halifax Regional Municipality and with the planning department of an engineering firm.
After he and his family, which includes his wife and two children – ages two and four – moved to Truro, he was doing a lot of travelling so the bylaw officer position attracted him.
“I deal with issues like solid waste, ensuring garbage isn’t left around,” he said. “I deal with dangerous and unsightly property, and minimum housing and maintenance standards.
“If someone is smoking in a non-smoking area, like Victoria Park, I talk to them. In a case like that it’s usually because someone is new to the area and not aware of the bylaw.”
Withrow can also handle noise complaints, off-road vehicles, parking issues, contained outdoor fires, sidewalk cafes, street vendors, sidewalk obstructions and issues around feeding wild animals. He is a member of the Atlantic Bylaw Officers Association and can issue summary offense tickets to those who violate bylaws.
“People with concerns can make complaints online or get a form at the office,” he said. “We follow those up with an investigation.”
He is also trained and authorized to visit sites with a building inspector.
When he’s not working he and his family enjoy biking, swimming and kayaking.
