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Cranbrook, BC (January 21, 2025) – Recurring damage and vandalism to the public washrooms at Rotary Park is behind the City’s decision to close the facilities to the public until further notice.

Since November 2024, damage, and vandalism to just the Rotary Park washroom has cost about $2,500. This vandalism has been happening regularly through the past year. Every few months Public Works is repairing damage to the facilities at a cost to the taxpayer of about $2,000 per incident.

Vandalism and damage is not limited to Rotary Park. Staff have also dealt with recurring vandalism at Moir Park and at the Kinsmen Quad Ball Fields as well.

“In the summertime, with more washrooms being open, the vandalism and damage increased in frequency,” says Kirby Korven, Public Works Manager. “This vandalism to all of our outdoor washroom facilities is not only replacing what is broken and covering up graffiti but it is also the removal of garbage and drug paraphernalia that is left behind.”

The City is actively working with the Cranbrook RCMP to ensure there is an increased police presence at the City’s numerous outdoor washroom facilities as a deterrent to further vandalism and damage.

Photos provided by Public Works, City of Cranbrook.