QUICK SUMMARY
The Everett City Council plans to vote on an ordinance imposing civil fines for illegal graffiti on public and private property. The city spends approximately $75,000 annually on graffiti cleanup, while property owners face even higher costs. The new measure aims to discourage tagging and reimburse the city for its abatement expenses.
The Everett City Council is set to vote on an ordinance that would impose civil penalties for illegal graffiti on public and private properties. Annually, the city spends about $75,000 to clean up graffiti, with property owners facing even higher financial burdens. Community organizations, such as the Bunker Arts Collective, also invest time and resources to cover up graffiti, as unchecked tagging can lead to more vandalism. The ordinance proposes a fine of $250 for unauthorized graffiti, along with restitution for removal costs incurred by property owners. It addresses the significant public nuisance posed by illegal graffiti, which has been reported on various city-owned properties in 2024. The city recorded 65 reports of illegal graffiti last year, with some incidents linked to gang-related activities. This new measure will enable the City Attorney to pursue civil actions in the Everett Municipal Court, aiming to deter future violations and recover abatement costs. Establishing a civil infraction provides a structured legal approach to managing graffiti issues in Everett.