Vernon council approves $25,000 repairs to vandalized downtown washrooms

Photo: City of Vernon

Vernon city council has approved spending $25,000 to repair vandalized downtown washrooms.

The washrooms will be out of service for up to two months for the repairs.

Scott Anderson was the only councillor against the move, suggesting the washrooms be closed down and used only for special events and bus drivers.

In a lengthy Facebook post in the Vernon Rant and and Rave (Uncensored) group, Anderson wrote: "Some of us, including me, argued that the bathrooms should be repaired and then shut down and opened for special events only, and others wanted them open, and in the end, they were given a last chance."

Coun. Kelly Fehr was "appalled" by the vandalism, calling out those who set a fire to the washroom, leaving it in shambles.

"I'm guessing it's a matter of time before council closes the bathroom down 24/7, if this kind of behaviour continues," said Fehr. "Whoever lit the bathroom on fire as a fully functioning person, you're an idiot and stop doing that," he added.

Coun. Dalvir Nahal said it is getting very expensive continuously having to repair the bathrooms.

"It's becoming a waste of our resources, such as bylaw and RCMP," said Nahal.

Administration confirmed the city has spent nearly $46,000 in repairs to the washrooms, including the most recent damage.

Coun. Kari Gares made a motion to reduce the hours of operation from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and to direct administration to look at other options to increase security. Her motion passed.

Nahal and Fehr voted against the motion.

Coun. Brian Quiring said he’s had enough of the constant vandalism. He suggested closing the facility down.

Fehr said it would be inhumane for people living on the streets who don't have access to bathrooms.

Washroom cleanings are completed five times a day, and morning and evening security checks are also completed seven days a week.