midAmerican Graffiti

I saw a presentation by the KCPD the other night about gangs and graffiti. It seems the problem with graffiti in our neighborhoods is compounded by the lack of zealous prosecution once the offenders have been arrested. Most graffiti in the 4th District is not gang-related but the perception that it is brings down property values in entire neighborhoods. The presence of spray paint on walls gives the impression that the area is in decline. Neighborhood leaders understand the Broken Windows Theory and it’s unfortunate that a few punks with too much time on their hands are allowed to deface walls and traffic signs with their supposed “art.” I’m not opposed to the murals that are done with the property owner’s permission. I’ve seen some fantastic pieces on what would otherwise be a dull cinder block wall. It’s the tagging of street signs, trash receptacles and retaining walls that has to be stopped. Graffiti seems like an innocuous crime until it’s your property or your neighborhood that gets vandalized.