Sarnia officials are dealing with significant turf damage at a second city park.
A vehicle drove onto the grassed area at Mike Weir Park in Bright's Grove causing deep ruts.
Parks and Recreation Director Rob Harwood says they're being forced to redirect limited resources.
"It's really upsetting," says Harwood. "At this time of the year we don't have all of our summer staff on, so our resources are stretched kind of thin and unfortunately because it's so wet there right now too, we can't actually remediate those areas immediately either. So, it's definitely frustrating to have to put any of our time, resources and money toward projects that shouldn't have to take place."
While a damage estimate is not yet known, Harwood says the costly repair will redirect funds away from positive park improvements, including new playground equipment.
The city is appealing to local landscaping contractors willing to donate services.
Just last weekend extensive damage was done to the main field and berm areas at Canatara Park. The preliminary damage estimate is $5,000 and Sarnia-Lambton Crime Stoppers has offered a $500 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Sarnia police Constable John Sottosanti says the investigation continues and security options are being reviewed.
"City of Sarnia Parks and Recreation staff, and Sarnia police have been working together to find possible solutions and deterrents to the damage being done in our beloved parks," says Sottosanti.
Anyone with information about the incidents in either park is urged to call city police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
- With files from Stephanie Chaves and Melanie Irwin
Parks and Recreation Director Rob Harwood gestures to damage at Mike Weir Park. Photo Submitted by City of Sarnia.
