Discussing what is done with graffiti

Patricia M. Reilly
Published: August 12, 2008

In his letter to the editor on Aug. 7, Mr. Earl Dixon expressed his concerns regarding graffiti in his neighborhood. Prince William County government recognizes the impacts of graffiti on our community —
it devalues and destroys property, instills fear and contributes to a sense of squalor. The county government is working hard to abate graffiti, and on July 22, the Prince William Board of County
Supervisors approved a new ordinance that allows the county or its designees to enter private property to remove or obscure graffiti.

Under the new ordinance, response to graffiti involves the Police Department, the Neighborhood Services Division of Public Works and non-profit partner Prince William Clean Community Council. Police
will continue to investigate graffiti to apprehend criminals. Conviction of the crime carries fines, and parents of convicted minors may be required to cover the costs of removal.  While the police are
investigating, Neighborhood Services will notify the property owner and occupant to remove the graffiti, and the Clean Community Council will offer assistance for removal. If the graffiti remains seven days
after notification is sent, the council’s volunteers will remove or obscure the graffiti.

We understand graffiti is a crime not only against the property owner, but against the community. In order to remove graffiti from our neighborhoods, it will take a community effort; and in order for this
effort to be effective, residents must report graffiti as soon as it is spotted. Victims of graffiti should remove the markings as quickly as possible or request assistance from the council.  We also invite Mr.
Dixon and other county residents to volunteer with the council to help keep our community clean and safe. 

PATRICIA M. REILLY

Prince William County Neighborhood Coordinator

Public Works Department