Public Works crews have suspended regularly scheduled duties to work on cleaning up city-owned buildings and public spaces vandalized by the recent rash of graffiti observed all over town. “We sympathize with our citizens whose properties were tagged, as cleaning this mess up on city properties has tied up two of our people for a couple of days,” stated Public Works Operations Manager Chris Funk. “We’re already working a tight schedule with a small crew and managing vandalism at this level is frustrating.”
As reported by the Madras Pioneer, one person has been arrested for some of the vandalism. “It’s evident to us that while this person was responsible for a large percentage of the vandalism, there are others adding to the problem,” stated Police Services Director Steve Bartol. “Graffiti has a negative impact on businesses and the community and covering it quickly has been proven to help deter the behavior.” Removing graffiti is the responsibility of the property owner and the City code requires it to be removed within 30 days. But studies show that if graffiti is not removed quickly, there will be an increase in additional graffiti. Graffiti vandalism is a crime, so if you see it occurring, call 9-1-1.
The City can provide paint and/or supplies for property owners if needed. “If a property owner cannot afford paint or graffiti removal supplies, they should call City Hall,” stated Communications Specialist Lysa Vattimo. “Between watchful citizens, enforcing the law, and providing needed supplies to cover or remove graffiti quickly, we can make a positive impact against this problem.” City Hall 541-475-2344.
Original source can be found here.
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