Ottawa residents may be able to legally drink alcohol in some city parks this summer. The city’s public services committee will consider an amendment to a city bylaw on May 27 that would propose a pilot project that would allow drinking in certain areas — excluding beaches, sports fields and children’s areas.

The proposal would give ward councillors the power to designate parks where drinking is permitted between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. However, Ottawa police have raised serious concerns about public safety. Police Chief Eric Stubbs warned that the proposal could increase feelings of insecurity among residents and would require additional enforcement.

The city is currently recommending an option in which each councillor would be able to select one park in their ward to participate in the pilot from July 1 to October 31.