Southern Georgian Bay OPP are investigating an incident that allegedly left a man injured at the groundbreaking of the Township of Tiny's new administrative centre on Friday.
As demonstrators protested the build of the reportedly $50 million build, they crowded the entrance of the property on Concession 9 East where dignitaries had gathered to celebrate the start of construction.
At midday, a pickup truck leaving the property was waved through by OPP as demonstrators began to surround the vehicle. Officers maintained a presence to keep the peace.
According to police, while the vehicle was departing the property, a heated exchange ensued involving demonstrators and the vehicle driver, prompting the OPP Provincial Liaison Team (PLT) to intervene.
Following the exchange, a demonstrator reported an injury claiming the truck ran over the edge of his foot. Paramedics attended the scene and transported him to a local hospital for medical assessment.
"The OPP remains committed to respecting the rights of all individuals to express themselves and assemble peacefully, while also upholding the safety and security of the broader community," Southern Georgian Bay OPP said in a news release.
Members of the detachment have launched an investigation, but no charges have been laid.
Reports indicate around 100 protesters were on-site, expressing their views that oppose the taxes expected to escalate because of the project.
The budget for the project, according to the Township, is $28 million. Construction is expected to be completed by 2027.
