Local snowmobilers have been ignoring a city bylaw and have caused approximately $4,000 in damage to electrical equipment in Hollinger Park.
Timmins Police Service has received a number of complaints of trespassing in the area.
"They are trying to set up their electrical to have the skating area lit up at night, and snowmobilers are going by and its causing damage to the equipment, somewhere around $4,000 dollars, according to Mr. Pye," said Marc Depatie, Corporate Communications Coordinator with the Timmins Police Service.
Sk8te Hollinger, is an operation spearheaded by local businessman Ken Pye. It is a giant figure-8 skating loop set up in the middle of the park. This year, an NHL sized skating rink will also be built on the other side of the parking lot. Sk8te Hollinger recently received $32,500 from the City of Timmins, a move approved by council, to assist in construction and maintenance costs. Pye told council that electrical costs are $64,700 for the facility.
Admittance to the rink is free, and it was enjoyed by thousands last winter.
The damage to the hydro connections is considered an 'Act of Public Mischief' and is under investigation by the TPS.
Depatie wants to remind the public that snowmobiles are not welcome in Hollinger Park at any time.
"Its clearly outlined what their obligations are. Be responsible. Respect the bylaw. Respect the fact that it is private property," he said.
Many snowmobilers choose to ignore city bylaws which can have a severely detrimental effect on the community as a whole.
"It could potentially cause the organizers undue expense, so we're hopeful that snowmobilers play along nicely."
Depatie says that Hollinger Park has always been off-limits to recreational vehicles.
"That park is designated strictly and completely for pedestrian traffic only, which includes skating. No motorized vehicles are allowed on park property at any time."
If caught, offenders can be subject to fines up to $1,000 dollars.
Due to the presence of a gas station beside the park, many snowmobiles cut through the area to buy fuel.
"When its going to cause damage to public and private property, that's where we have to re-inform the motoring public. There's an obligation here to avoid it, completely and absolutely. Find another route, its not that hard" said Depatie.
