Repeated acts of vandalism at Kin Park have resulted in thousands of dollars in damage to public property and increased costs for local taxpayers, prompting the City of Fort St. John to install surveillance cameras and renew its call for residents to report suspicious activity.
Over the past several months, Kin Park has been the site of ongoing vandalism, including multiple fires, damage to garbage cans, and destruction of public infrastructure. The incidents have required responses from the Fort St. John Fire Department, the RCMP, and City staff, diverting valuable resources away from other community priorities. RCMP files have been opened, and investigations remain ongoing.
To help deter future incidents and support investigations, the City has installed surveillance cameras in Kin Park. The cameras have been placed in key areas of the park and will assist law enforcement in identifying those responsible for vandalism and other unlawful activity.
“Over the past several years, the City has invested millions of dollars into making Kin Park one of the premier recreational destinations in our community. It's disappointing to see those investments damaged by the actions of a few individuals. Every act of vandalism means taxpayers are paying for repairs, cleanup, and increased patrols rather than for new improvements and services. Kin Park belongs to everyone, and we need the community's help to protect it,” said Mayor Lilia Hansen.
"Although the fires we've responded to at Kin Park have been relatively small, they still present a serious concern. A fire that starts in a garbage can or another park fixture can spread to nearby trees, structures, or other park amenities, particularly during dry conditions. Every response also removes a fire apparatus and crew from service while they attend the incident. The cost extends beyond damaged property and affects the resources available to respond when residents need us most," stated Fire Chief and Director of Public Safety Robert Norton.
City staff continue to work closely with the RCMP to address the issue and identify those responsible. Information from residents can play an important role in ongoing investigations.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity in Kin Park is encouraged to contact the Fort St. John RCMP. Residents are also reminded that vandalism affects everyone by reducing the resources available for community programs, park improvements, and other municipal services.