Town of Souris cracking down on vandalism in park

The Town of Souris is cracking down on noise and graffiti and is hoping to catch vandals in the act.

Mayor Dave MacDonald said a gazebo that's part of CN Park has become a gathering place for youth. The trouble is, area residents have started to complain about foul language and vandalism. So the town plans to install security cameras, hoping this will encourage park users to mind their manners.

"I have no problem with them hanging out here if they didn't do any damage," said MacDonald. 

"And if they know there's cameras here, perhaps they'll continue to come, but act in a more civilized manner."

Several years ago, the town installed security cameras near Souris Beach and MacDonald said since then, there's been a dramatic reduction in vandalism and bad behaviour. But the cameras require an Internet connection and electricity, something CN Park can't accommodate.

"What we're looking at is a battery operated, motion sensitive type camera, which means that it would be off unless someone was here, and if someone was here it would come on."

Making neighbours happy

MacDonald says this type of camera is also a lot more cost-effective. He estimates the town will be able to purchase and install two cameras at CN park for roughly $2,000. He said this will make the neighbours happy.

"I think they would be quite happy to see young people around as long as their behaviour was a little better."

MacDonald said the cameras are being priced this week. He adds with the warmer weather approaching, he'd like to see them installed as soon as possible.

CN Park is also where the town's annual Canada Day celebrations are held. MacDonald said cleaning up the graffiti on the gazebo will happen sometime this month.

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