Few reported incidents at Walter Stinson Park; committee weighs whether added lighting would help or invite activity

Police reported a small number of incidents at Walter Stinson Park over the review period, and committee members debated whether adding lighting after dusk would deter vandalism or attract more activity.

Police Chief Rogers reviewed incidents the department logged between Jan. 1, 2024, and Sept. 4, 2025: one fireworks-related incident with an arrest on July 7, 2024; property damage to park bathrooms on Aug. 1, 2024; and another report of damage on June 23, 2025. Rogers said the department conducts frequent park checks several times per shift and unlocks bathrooms seasonally as part of routine patrol duties.

During committee discussion, council member Cooney and others asked whether adding lighting along paths and at entries would reduce vandalism by improving sightlines and encouraging adult presence. Chief Rogers said lighting can be an element of crime-prevention-through-environmental-design but noted tradeoffs: lighting may make the park more inviting for legitimate users but could also encourage more activity after the park’s 9 p.m. closing time. He recommended any change be data-driven; the department's data for the cited period did not indicate a high volume of criminal incidents at the park.

Why it matters: committee members said residents raised concerns about vandalism and safety, but several members cautioned that lights could unintentionally signal the park is intended for after‑hours use.

Ending

No changes were approved. The committee requested staff and council members review literature and evidence on lighting and crime prevention and to return with additional input; police will continue routine park checks and incident reporting.