City Council Discusses New Graffiti Notification and Removal Process

Graffiti enforcement took center stage at the Utica Common Council Committee of the Whole meeting on September 2, 2025, as city officials discussed a new proposal aimed at tackling the growing issue of graffiti in the community. The proposed legislation introduces a clear definition of graffiti and outlines a 12-day notification period for property owners to address graffiti visible from public rights-of-way.

Council members debated the specifics of the notification process, emphasizing the importance of timely communication between the city and property owners. "We have to notify people," one member stated, highlighting the need for clarity on whether the 12-day period should start from the appearance or discovery of the graffiti. The consensus leaned towards starting the countdown from the issuance of a notice to property owners, ensuring they have a clear timeframe to act.

The discussion also touched on the responsibilities of property owners and the city's role in graffiti removal. If property owners choose to remove the graffiti themselves, they can be reimbursed by the city, but if the city intervenes, a waiver will protect it from liability. "The amount of places that I've driven around with graffiti... it's just absolutely ridiculous," one council member remarked, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

While the proposal is seen as a necessary step forward, council members acknowledged that it may require future amendments to address any unforeseen challenges. "We've got to start somewhere," one member concluded, reflecting a shared commitment to improving the city's appearance and safety. The council plans to revisit the proposal in upcoming meetings, aiming for a more effective approach to graffiti enforcement in Utica.