Getting rid of graffiti in our community
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 28/05/2021 (735 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
As we spend more time outdoors in the warmer weather, we tend to notice out-of-place things such as graffiti in our community.
Recently, there has been an increase in graffiti throughout Winnipeg. Many of you have reached out to 311 and my office in search of ways to prevent and remove it. The City of Winnipeg invests roughly a million dollars annually on graffiti removal, offering a year-round, free-of-charge graffiti removal service for residents and businesses that have been damaged.
Like each of you, I greatly value having a beautiful community. Winnipeggers deserve to enjoy outdoors spaces without seeing things that can decrease community pride. There are a few things we can do to prevent graffiti. Areas that are well-fenced, well-lit, and include greenery are less likely to be targeted by taggers — those who write graffiti.
When graffiti appears, it should be removed as soon as possible. Information on how to remove graffiti can be found on the City of Winnipeg website.
You can also call 311 to request help with graffiti cleanup.
Reporting graffiti is important because it helps the city understand and analyze which areas are more prone to the issue. You can report to the police non-emergency line at 204-986-6222 or online.
If you’d like to submit an anonymous tip, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS. Graffiti on hydro poles or boxes can be reported to Manitoba Hydro, and any graffiti on telephone poles or boxes can be reported to MTS.
While graffiti is inappropriate or damaging to property, commissioned art is beautiful and showcases the talent of artists. Just last fall, there was a mural created on Main Street at the Gwen Secter Creative Living Centre. I’ve been happy to support such community art that makes our streets more vibrant and welcoming.
Continue to reach out to me about emerging issues, which helps me develop timely plans to address them. I value your input and appreciate your views on our various neighbourhoods that make up our larger community of Old Kildonan.
As always, if you have any questions, comments, or ideas, you can reach me by email at devi@winnipeg.ca or by phone at 204-986-5264.
Devi Sharma
Old Kildonan ward report
Devi Sharma is the city councillor for Old Kildonan.