Perth Ontario - Other places may see examples of dog whistle politics, but Perth town council only ever seems to hear about train whistle politics.
 
In an 18 Sep 2020 email to Coun. Brock McPherson, resident Melody MacDonell wrote that "I would like the leadership in Perth to do something about the train blaring its horn every time it goes through town. There is no need to blast through crossings, all of which have lights and lowering guards. You can request a change by asking CP to refrain from doing so. It is simple and will make your beautiful town more peaceful."
 
That email was shared with town council during their committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, 6 Oct 2020 and reminded Coun. Judy Brown, who was chairing the meeting, that "this has been an issue for a few years."
 
But she pointed out that "it's not as simple as asking the engineers to stop."
 
Coun. Leona Cameron said that when it comes to train whistles, "I hear it from my bedroom. I do enjoy hearing it."
 
At the same time, while "I love trains, I have a big fear of them as well. I still always have a little trepidation."
 
When it comes to sounding a train whistle at a crossing, "I would have to see the train whistles not go," said Deputy Mayor Ed McPherson, as a safety precaution.
 
Brown suggested that there be "an update on the current situation," that the letter be received for information, and that a staff report be prepared for the November committee of the whole meeting.
 
Desmond Devoy.