NORRIDGEWOCK — The town is considering investing in security cameras and better lighting systems for the public library and other parts of town after repeated vandalism of public spaces.
Among the most recent was a break-in at the Norridgewock Free Public Library on Mercer Road that resulted in about $500 worth of stolen property and $250 in damage, according to Town Manager Michelle Flewelling.
About three weeks ago, someone with an all-terrain vehicle drove through the gates at Oosoola Park and pushed a portable toilet into the Kennebec River, she said. Municipal trash cans and parking signs have been broken and there have been other petty crimes, said Flewelling.
“The vandalism to our public facilities is getting to be expensive. It’s nauseating,” said Flewelling. Oosoola Park has been vandalized at least three times in the last year, including damage to playground equipment and a gazebo, said Flewelling.
She said the break-in at the library, which is being investigated by the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department, was discovered Tuesday morning and likely occurred over the weekend or on Monday.
Neither the library nor the park have surveillance or security systems. Flewelling said the town has been looking into setting up video cameras in various places around town with footage available on the town website as well as in the town office. Cost estimates begin at about $20,000, she said.
She asked anyone with information on the library break-in to contact the town office or Somerset County Sheriff’s Department.
Rachel Ohm — 612-2368
rohm@mainetoday.com
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