Big Drop in Graffiti Calls Reported
Code enforcement officials reported a 44% decline in calls to the city’s graffiti hot line during the first half of 1994. Officials interpreted the drop as a positive sign their “aggressive program of enforcement, abatement and education” is working.
“We are encouraged by the numbers,” said Richard LaRochelle, code enforcement supervisor. “Thanks to the volunteer groups who are painting out graffiti in their neighborhoods on a regular basis, many of the locations are removed before anyone has a chance to call them in. Stepped-up education and enforcement efforts have resulted in a drop of graffiti incidents.”
During the first six months in 1993, the hot line logged 1,461 calls, compared to 823 for the same period this year.
The 24-hour bilingual hot line has been in place since 1989. The department’s education program reaches an estimated 40,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
In July, more than 300 volunteers participated in “Paint Outs” sponsored by the code enforcement division, using 400 gallons of paint.
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