Bridgeport announces reward to combat park vandalism

BRIDGEPORT—Renovation is well underway at Berryman Park, where city residents can see site work and facility installations taking shape. The colorful playground equipment is in place, a new restroom building is in its pad, a barbecue and picnic shelter are there, and new paved access trails wind through the property. Those improvements are making the park an inviting target for vandals.

The city council addressed the issue of property damage and graffiti defacing the new additions during its regular monthly meeting last Wednesday, Sept. 18.

“I approved a posting on Facebook (facebook.com/BridgeportWA/),” said Mayor Sergio Orozco. “I want to let the public know what had happened. It’s a big investment for the community, and they need to know what is going on.”

City clerk/treasurer Judy Brown reminded councilmembers how that investment breaks down.

“This project is costing almost a million dollars,” said Brown. “We are only getting $500,000 from RCO (Recreation and Conservation Office). This is money out of our coffers.”

Public Works Director Stuart Dezellem has been following the incidents and communicating with the renovation contractor. Dezellem said the damage includes a granite stone that was painted and a port-a-potty vandalized.

“Some people have spoken to me about potentially willing to put some dollars for a reward,” said Dezellem. 

Mayor Orozco said he would be willing to personally contribute to a reward effort.

“Hopefully, this will help put a stop to it,” said Orozco. “At least let them know that the community is not going to stand for it.”

Brown reminded the council that a reward could not come from city funds.

“The city cannot do it,” cautioned Brown. “It has to be private donations. The city cannot take the money. It can facilitate the donations to a person designated as the recipient.”

Details for those wishing to donate are pending.

Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media