New snowblower stolen from Port Colborne’s Friends Over 55 centre
A new snowblower used only once by Port Colborne Friends Over 55 Recreation Centre was stolen this week, says the organization’s president, Jack O’Neil.
And, he added, it’s not the first time it’s happened to the centre, which aims to keep older adults active through various events and activities.
“We had one stolen from our shed last year, too. That’s $ 2,400 in two years now. I just can’t see us buying another snowblower right now.”
O’Neil says the theft took place about 4: 15 a. m. Wednesday.
While a private contractor plows the parking lot of the centre at 554 Fielden Ave., the snowblower is used to clear the sidewalk in front and walkways to its entrances.
The shed it was stolen from is new and had a strong stainless steel lock on it. “It probably took him 10 minutes to cut that lock. We have cameras around the centre, but it was blowing snow and hard to see the person. I don’t know why they would steal from the seniors centre.”
O’Neil says the senior centre believes it may be the same person who stole the snowblower last year.
The theft was reported to Niagara Regional Police.
The snowblower is a dark grey Briggs & Stratton model with red details and has the words Senior Centre written on it. “Hopefully, someone will return it.” Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 905- 735- 7811 ext 3200 or call the seniors centre at
905- 835- 1731.