Washroom one on Lakeshore Drive has been closed due to extensive vandalism.
The last instance of vandalism to the lakefront washrooms happened on March 21.
Damage done included:
- Broken toilet paper and soap dispensers
- Dumping garbage on the floor
- Wadded Toilet paper on the roof/ceiling
Since January, this had been the most significant vandalism at the location, communications officer Jared Waldo said.
"Unfortunately, these washrooms typically see some sort of vandalism every seven to 10 days. This costs two hours of staff time. The replacement cost of equipment is minimal since the janitorial supply company currently supplies us with toilet paper dispensers and soap dispensers at no charge."
In 2024, the Town of Sylvan Lake invested in several security camera installation sites, including cameras for beach washrooms one and two.
"These cameras and footage help to determine those responsible for the damage," Waldo said.
The town has also been working with the RCMP, Waldo added.
"When the Town experiences senseless acts of vandalism, like the damage caused at our public washrooms, we open up a file with the RCMP. This includes sharing statements, security footage from the area, and other details to help the RCMP with their investigations."
The town has also been successful in finding out some of the individuals at fault for the vandalism taking place, Waldo said.
"By installing security cameras, we're able to work more closely with RCMP to track down those responsible for the damage. This doesn’t happen in all instances, but our ability to identify these vandals and hold them responsible has increased significantly."
"These individuals are then charged and must help offset the costs of the damage. In certain situations, those responsible must also provide community service, working off the cost of the damage with the Town, as determined by the RCMP."
The Town will be investing in more durable dividers and infrastructure within the washrooms to help decrease the amount of damage that can be done.
"While we’d prefer no damage to our facilities, we know it’s inevitable. Having materials less prone to vandalism in public spaces is part of our plan," Waldo said.
"These upgrades to the washrooms are being funded by the Pay Parking reserve. Those funds come from our annual Visitor Pay Parking program. We anticipate these upgrades to be complete later this year."
Currently, the Town of Sylvan Lake is also looking into reviewing the times the washrooms are open, which is from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
"The washrooms are locked and unlocked daily by staff. While we could keep these facilities locked outside of our busy seasons, we think that would be a disservice to Lakers who need to use these facilities when enjoying the beachfront," Waldo said.
The only way vandalism in Sylvan Lake can end is for individuals responsible to stop doing it, he added.
"The Town has many services and programs available through our Wellness Community Connections and Family Resource Network teams for those who may need support. Ending vandalism isn’t just about enforcement; it’s the responsibility of the entire community to work together to continue making Sylvan Lake an incredible place to call home."
