Graffiti
September 14, 2008 in AV, Community Development, Local Interest, Politics & Government, TAB
Graffiti in Bradford, was the order of business at the Bradford City Council Graffiti Work Session held on September 9. The work session was open to the public, with about 20 local residents attending in addition to City Council members.
Based on ordinances from various other municipalities, Council presented a draft ordinance. The draft ordinance can be found here. After a reading of the draft by Mayor Tom Riel, comments were called for from the residents.
The ordinace proposes to:
- Formally make graffiti a crime.
- Ban the sale to, and possession of, spray paint for minors.
- Require property owners to clean up graffiti in a reasonable time period.
During the public comment period, residents aired concerns such as, what penalties could be levied for offenders, and if the ordinance would apply to everyone equally.
The proposed ordinance leaves punishment up to Pennsylvania state guidelines as imposed by a judge. It also specifically states that it applies to, “associations, businesses, clubs, corporations, partnerships, and bodies politic”.
Council member Rick Benton questioned the “possession” clause, that there are many legitimate reasons for minors to possess spray paint, such as a senior project, or decorating a home coming float. He felt the wording of the ordinance would prevent legitimate activities as well as graffiti. Council member Ross Neidich expressed a preference for coordinating ordinances with Foster and Bradford Townships, and enacting the ordinances simultaneously to present a united front.
Resident Dick McDowell made an impassioned plea for property owners to stand up for their rights by not putting up with blight. That sentiment was echoed by Elm Street manager Lisa Campogiani and Council member Bob ONuffer, who urged residents to work with police to make the ordinance effective.
Mayor Tom Riel and Police Chief Michael Close stated that there is absolutely no evidence that the graffiti is gang related.
The work session involved the draft ordinance. To become law, the final draft will have a “first reading” at a future Council meeting. It can then be voted into law at a subsequent council meeting. The first reading is scheduled for the next Council meeting.
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