Highland Village Parks Board Reviews Vandalism Data for Local Art Project

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board of Highlands convened on August 18, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting the community, including the ongoing problem of vandalism in local parks and public spaces. The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming the presence of board members, while noting the absence of Leslie Andrews.

One of the key discussions centered on the impact of vandalism, particularly graffiti, on trail tunnels and murals in Highlands and neighboring cities such as Lewisville and Flower Mound. Board member Noel presented data on vandalism incidents, highlighting that there have been 12 documented cases of graffiti since 2016 in Highland Village. Commander Schlichter provided insights into the nature of these incidents, indicating that most acts of vandalism are attributed to juveniles rather than organized taggers or gang members. The majority of the damage reported was minor, often involving graffiti that included juvenile symbols or profanity.

The board discussed the implications of these findings, particularly in relation to an upcoming art project intended to beautify the 2499 Tunnel as part of the City Trail initiative. The discussion emphasized the need for community engagement and preventive measures to address vandalism while promoting artistic expression in public spaces.

In addition to the vandalism discussion, the board approved the minutes from the previous meeting held on July 21, 2025, with unanimous consent. The meeting concluded without any visitor comments, as no members of the public were present to address the board.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing community spaces while addressing the challenges posed by vandalism. The discussions will likely inform future initiatives aimed at fostering a safer and more vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike.