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Alexandria board weighs locks, cameras and police contact after repeated restroom vandalism
Summary
Board members described repeated vandalism and sustained unsupervised youth presence in town parks, discussed temporarily locking restrooms and using tamper‑resistant fixtures, and considered adding cameras and closer police coordination to reduce damage and protect users.
Members reported recurring problems with older youths using the parks beyond intended ages and causing vandalism that recently left restroom fixtures damaged. Board members described toilets and mechanisms torn out, paper‑towel dispensers ripped from walls and plugged toilets; cleaning was completed but repairs and more tamper‑resistant fixtures were recommended.
Board discussion centered on short-term steps and enforcement. Options included keeping restrooms locked except during events, asking police to document incidents, contacting parents when juveniles are identified and installing cameras or changing exterior locks at the Bob Rogers building to deter misuse. One member noted limitations of relying on police because of staffing constraints; another suggested better documentation through calls and photos so the police can build a record.
On maintenance, the board agreed to replace damaged dispensers and consider hardwired or recessed fixtures less vulnerable to theft. Members also discussed remote or scheduled thermostat control and other facility controls as separate but related operational concerns.
No formal policy change or ordinance was adopted at the meeting; the board assigned follow‑up items to staff to explore camera options, locking schedules and tamper‑resistant fixture prices and to coordinate next steps with the mayor's office and local law enforcement.
