Replacement bench eyed for Glik Park as investigation continues 

A stone bench was found damaged at Glik Park in Highland on March 22. (Photo Credit: Highland Police Department’s Facebook)

By Brittany Blackwell, Reporter  • A longtime fixture at Glik Park in Highland was found severely damaged late last month, prompting an investigation and noticeable community support.

According to local authorities, a citizen discovered a damaged park bench on March 22. The bench and memorial placard, which were donated in memory of a Glik family member, was valued at more than $3,500. At this time, officials have deemed the incident as an act of vandalism and the bench unrepairable. 

“It appears the bench itself was moved, which directs us away from it being a weather event,” Highland Chief of Police Carole Widman told the Times-Tribune on March 31. There is no new information in regards to what happened to the bench, she said. 

In response to the incident, the damaged bench has been removed and the city is looking to collaboratively secure a replacement. Authorities also posted about the matter on Facebook. 

“We’ve been in touch with the Glik family. They want to get a replacement bench to match the other benches in the park,” said Highland Director of Recreation Laura Wilken.

“It’s nice that the community has cared about this,” Wilken said. “The person who discovered the bench made a cash donation and cares a lot about the park and wants to make sure it is maintained.” 

A local business also made a donation toward replacing the more than 20-year-old bench, which was made of marble and was about four-feet long. 

In addition to the new park bench, Wilken explained that more security cameras may be needed near the parking area. She said the current cameras did not capture a good view of the incident. However, the bench was reportedly intact during outdoor activities just days before the discovery according to accounts from coaches and park staff.  

Both Wilken and Widman explained that crime is rare in the park. 

Still, authorities are seeking public assistance in the ongoing investigation. Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity, has information about the incident or has video footage from the area is encouraged to contact the Highland Police Department at 618-654-2131, ext. 1.