Information sought in restroom vandalism

Among the facilities available to those playing or attending baseball and softball games during the summer months, or watching the fireworks show, are the public restrooms at the softball complex between the armory and fairgrounds.

But recent incidents have caused concern over how the restrooms are being treated. Hot Springs County Recreation District Director Anja Abbott said on July 4 someone “went to town” in the stalls of the women’s restroom, carving initials and messages. In mid to late June, she noted, someone left a tap on in the same restroom, causing some flooding.

Abbott explained the restrooms are typically unlocked when there is an activity and relocked when it is over. If someone happens to be practicing or playing outside a scheduled event and rec district staff are around, she said, people can ask staff to unlock them.

Abbott said there has been some discussion about setting up cameras or other options to increase security at the restrooms, though she would like to be able to have them open even when staff is not around. Anyone with information regarding the incidents is encouraged to call the rec district at 864-3767.