FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Residents living near Kin Park are calling on the City of Fort St. John to take further action after a series of vandalism incidents, fires, and reports of unauthorized dirt bike activity in the popular recreation area.
In a letter sent to city officials, one resident who does not want to be named said, people living near the park have become increasingly concerned about safety issues following the area’s recent redevelopment.
The resident said vandalism and motorized vehicles operating in areas intended for pedestrians and recreational users have become recurring problems.
Eight young people were recently seen riding dirt bikes throughout Kin Park and along 93 Street.
The resident contacted the Fort St. John RCMP and a file was opened related to the incident. It was the second police file opened within three days involving similar concerns.
Residents have also expressed concerns about fire risks in the park. The city said several garbage cans have been set on fire during the past two weeks, raising fears that a larger blaze could occur.
The concerns follow previous acts of vandalism at Kin Park. In October 2025, a baseball dugout and a garbage can were deliberately set on fire.
A newly constructed washroom was also damaged by fire earlier that month, leading to temporary closures while repairs were completed.
In response, the City of Fort St. John says it has taken additional measures to address the problem.
The city announced it has installed surveillance cameras in key areas of Kin Park and continues to work with the RCMP on ongoing investigations.
Mayor Lilia Hansen said repeated vandalism incidents are costing taxpayers thousands of dollars in repairs, cleanup, and increased patrols.
Hansen noted the city has invested millions of dollars into developing Kin Park as a major recreational destination and said protecting those investments requires community support.
Fire Chief and Director of Public Safety Robert Norton said even relatively small fires can pose a serious risk, particularly during dry conditions, and require emergency crews to be diverted from other calls.
The city is encouraging anyone who witnesses suspicious activity in Kin Park to contact the Fort St. John RCMP and provide any information that could assist ongoing investigations.