Selma City Council updates graffiti ordinance to encourage property maintenance

In the heart of Selma's city hall, council members gathered to address pressing community issues, with a focus on a new approach to tackling graffiti. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as officials discussed the proposed changes to the city's graffiti ordinance, aimed at encouraging property owners to take action against unsightly vandalism.

The council outlined a plan that would allow the city to remove graffiti from private properties at no cost to the owners, provided they consent within ten days of receiving notice. This initiative is designed to foster cooperation between the city and residents, ensuring that neighborhoods remain clean and inviting. If property owners agree, the city will step in to eliminate the graffiti without imposing any financial burden on them.

However, the council made it clear that if property owners choose not to consent, they could face daily fines for failing to remove the graffiti. These fines would accumulate until they reach $1,500, at which point the city attorney would be authorized to take legal action. This could involve seeking permission to enter the property to remove the graffiti or requiring the property owner to hire contractors for the job.

The changes to the ordinance reflect a proactive stance by the city, aiming to reduce the prevalence of graffiti while minimizing the financial impact on residents. The council emphasized that the goal is not to penalize but to encourage collaboration in maintaining the community's aesthetic appeal.

As the meeting progressed, questions arose about the specifics of the ten-day consent period, highlighting the need for clarity in the ordinance. The council's commitment to addressing these concerns demonstrates their dedication to effective governance and community engagement.

With these new measures, Selma is taking significant steps toward a cleaner, more vibrant city, fostering a sense of pride among its residents while tackling the challenges of urban decay. The outcome of this initiative will be closely watched as the city seeks to balance enforcement with community cooperation in the months ahead.