Disgusting, Criminal Behavior May Force Restroom to Close

The following is just a brief example of what the city and I deal with on a daily basis: continual theft of the toilet paper, the soap dispensers and floor drain covers. Defacing the walls with carved initials and graffiti and feces smeared on all surfaces or piles of it left on the floors.

This disrespect is heartbreaking to the city, as we have put in countless hours and money to keep our town presentable and welcoming to visitors. We know that public restrooms are needed, but at what cost?

I currently spend approximately 15-to-20 hours a week cleaning, sanitizing and restocking the restrooms. Lately, I have spent an additional 10-plus hours each week handling the vandalism and general disrespect of the restrooms. The city has spent well over $500 in just three months to replace stolen toilet paper, the soap dispensers and paint to cover the constant graffiti.

I am asking you, the citizens of South Bend, to please report any suspicious activity around the 101 or Eklund Park Restrooms. Let’s stop the person or persons that are creating havoc in our town!

I truly do not want to close the restrooms, but during this tough economic time the city cannot continue to support and pay for this total disrespect of our property. The city has no extra money for maintaining, stocking, cleaning and repairing the restrooms on a daily basis.

Kirk Church,

Mayor, City of South Bend