Re: Graffiti removal ends in wake of Saanich budget cutbacks (News, June 22).
This is a totally appalling situation. We need a graffiti officer who is dedicated to enforcing the bylaws and who can get this blight eliminated in Saanich.
I would happily pay the additional one per cent on my property taxes instead of the money that council spends on surveys for “public engagement” often with limited transparency or fiscal accountability for the use of said surveys. Offering free clean up kits is not enough.
It is time for B.C. Hydro, Canada Post and the municipality to take a co-ordinated approach like other cities including New York, San Diego and Kelowna have successfully done.
A run-down looking Saanich is not a good and healthy situation. Graffiti damages our clean image as being one of the best municipalities in the province. Council should reconsider this use of funds as an investment in a healthy and clean Saanich.
Any graffiti is obscene because it damages our landscape, reduces our property values and invites more crime into an area. Let’s clean it up now.
Art Pollard
Saanich