The City of Timmins is working with police to investigate damage to close to 40 parking meters, with officials saying the incidents have been unfolding over the past three months. The enforcement department is co-operating with Timmins Police Service on the active investigation, which gained wider public attention Monday after a resident’s social media post prompted an official response from the municipality. Resident’s observation sparks discussion Marc Bouley posted on a community Facebook page shortly after 2 p.m. on Tuesday, describing what he saw during a morning walk. “Saw at least 15 or so missing or damaged this morning on my walk,” he wrote, concluding with an observation about the practical effect of the vandalism. City details scope and costs The city responded publicly on its own social media page roughly two hours later, providing context on the scale of the problem and its financial implications. “To date, we have close to 40 parking meters damaged ... all the older model,” the city wrote in its post. A new parking meter costs about $800, the city said, addressing a question raised by the original poster. The city’s traffic department is now working to order new meters and install replacements, with some damaged units being swapped out for Fast Tap signs that enable mobile payment. City, police seek public assistance “If any business owners have footage of the vandals, please contact TPS (Timmins Police Service),” the city wrote. City of Timmins spokesperson Amanda Dyer confirmed in an email to CTV News on Tuesday that the investigation remains active and noted the case had been ongoing for months before Tuesday’s public discussion. “Just took off on a community page today,” the spokesperson said. For motorists encountering broken meters, the city offered practical advice while repairs proceed. “If you can pay by app or park at a different meter that works, it’s appreciated,” said the city. “The money collected from parking is used to maintain parking infrastructure ... and can help offset the cost of repair.” With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca anchor Ian Campbell
