Vandals have struck again at a prominent public art installation in Newmarket's Riverwalk Commons area downtown.
Several pieces of the life-sized granite sculptures at the Community Living Room, which includes a three-seat sofa, two arm chairs, two side tables and a coffee table, were damaged sometime last weekend. Part of the coffee table was broken, along with minor damage to the couch and side table. York Regional Police is investigating.
Community services commissioner Jeff Payne said it is an unfortunate incident.
“Vandalism has no place in our community,” he said. “Vandalism is a crime and a serious offence.”
The town installed the art piece in 2020, inspired by former mayor and current Newmarket-Aurora MP Tony Van Bynen, who would hold regular informal meetings with the public in the area.
But it is not the first time vandals have struck this art piece. In 2022, the coffee table and two side tables were taken away for repairs after two separate incidents of vandalism.
The town is no stranger to other incidents of vandalism in other public places, with planters on Main Street getting damaged in 2021.
Payne said that in 2023, the municipality spent approximately $25,000 cleaning up vandalism in the community.
“Newmarket continues to be in regular contact with York Regional Police to work collaboratively in ensuring the safety of our public spaces,” Payne said. “The town would like to remind residents that vandalism is a crime and should be reported.”
The art feature has been fenced off and workers have been on site this week to attend to repairs. Payne said a cost estimate is not yet available.
“Please keep an eye out for vandalism and graffiti to help keep this space and the community beautiful and enjoyable for all,” Payne said.
Residents can report vandalism in progress by calling 911 or YRP Crime Stoppers at 1-(800)-222-TIPS. You can also report after the fact to [email protected] or call 905-895-5193.
