Hornsby Shire Council's newly elected Mayor, Warren Waddell, has issued a call to arms to Council and the community to tackle the problem of graffiti in the Shire's town centres, villages and transport routes.
In a special Mayoral Minute brought to his first Council meeting as Mayor, Mayor Waddell requested Council prepare a report outlining options for a Shire wide strategy with a strong focus on community involvement in preventing unwanted graffiti and its removal from private property.
"Graffiti is becoming an increasingly pressing issue in almost every area of Hornsby, particularly along major roads, town centres, public spaces, and community facilities. This surge not only mars the visual appeal of our neighbourhoods but also contributes to a broader perception of neglect and disorder detracting from Hornsby's character, diminishing its natural beauty and the well-maintained public spaces that the community cherishes," said Mayor Waddell.
"I have been impressed at just how efficient our own teams are at dealing with the presence of graffiti on Council owned assets. The problem however is much larger than this and needs addressing."
The requested report will include recommendations that are well proven across the world for how Council can work with the community and private owners to tackle this issue. It will also explore how greater collaboration with the State government can be fostered to prevent and better manage the removal of graffiti on state owned assets.
Actions to be investigated include rapid removal; facilitating quick and simple reporting; community engagement, education and participation; integrated public art and graffiti; and alternative funding.
"I have been buoyed by the interest of the whole community to support this war on graffiti which will contribute to a more vibrant, safe, attractive, and culturally rich community for all residents of Hornsby Shire," Mayor Waddell said.
"I thank my colleague Councillors for supporting my Mayoral Minute," he added.
The report with its recommendations will be presented to Council in the coming months. To read Mayor Waddell's full Mayoral Minute visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au
