Fishers closes park bathrooms in evenings to deal with vandalism
FISHERS, Ind. (WISH) — Morgan Hughes has been bringing her kids to parks in Fishers for years.
Recent vandalism at Fishers parks is “absolutely detrimental, especially in the summer. … Just a place to be out in the sun, with so many things to do, get you more active,” Hughes said Tuesday.
On Saturday, the city posted on Facebook, “Due to an increase in vandalism at restrooms at Fishers Parks properties, the restrooms at the following parks are closed at 8 p.m. NPD AMP restrooms will no longer be open outside of large events hosted at the venue.”
The change is at these parks: Billericay Park, Cumberland Park, Brooks School Park, Mudsock Fields, Flat Fork Creek Park, and Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve.
The fact that someone would want to damage the parks her family enjoys is frustrating to Hughes. “I think it’s just really pointless and saddening honestly.”
Hughes says locking the bathrooms is an inconvenience. “It’s understandable but it makes it harder on people who just want to come and have fun. I mean, where are kids suppose to use the bathroom? Kids have to use the bathroom constantly. They drink tons of water,” Hughes said.
Devonna Miltenberger and her family enjoy the parks, too. Her children say it’s unfair vandals would ruin fun things.
“I guess now they have to take extra measures like locking the restrooms at nighttime,” Miltenberger said.
News 8 reached out to the Parks Department about the vandalism, and its personnel said to talk to the Fishers Police Department, which was unavailable for comment on Tuesday.
Fishers Police chief Ed Gebhart issued a letter about the vandalism on Friday, three days after the News 8 report.
“Members of the Community,
“There is a concerning trend the Fishers Police and Fishers Parks have recently reported in our city parks. Over the past several weeks some of the buildings and restroom facilities in our city parks have been vandalized. These acts of vandalism included tipped over trash cans, graffiti, damage to property, and even covering walls with feces. These are criminal acts and are being investigated by the FPD. Currently, we believe these acts are at the hands of minors after park closure at dusk when the parks are not as populated.
“In response, the City of Fishers and the Fishers Police Department have increased police patrols of city parks, installed security cameras, and added signage to assist in reporting any suspicious activity. These extra security measures are being implemented to help detect and deter future acts of vandalism which impedes residents from being able to utilize facilities while unnecessary repairs and extra cleaning efforts waste tax dollars.
“I am asking our community to help. If you see something, say something. No suspicious activity is too small to report. If you see vandalism or an emergency in progress, dial 911. Report existing vandalism or non-emergency situations to 317-773-1282 or via the Fishers Connect app and QR codes located on signage in all city parks. In turn, we will act on any violation of law or local ordinance applicable.
“In the heart of summer, parents, please take the time to know where your children are and where they are gathering. A few simple measures of accountability and setting expectations can go a long way in keeping our parks properties in great condition.
“Fishers’ award-winning Parks department exists to connect residents to each other, contribute to the vibrancy of our community, and encourage health and wellbeing. We’re committed to ensuring that Fishers’ parks continue to be a safe place for our residents and families to enjoy.”
Letter from Fishers Police Chief Ed Gebhart on June 10, 2022
