Councilor Tobin Calls for Stiffer Penalties for Graffiti on Historic Landmarks
October 23, 2009
Boston City Councillor John M. Tobin, Jr. this week called on the city to increase the penalty for defacing historic landmarks in Boston.
Councillor Tobin, who is chair of the Council’s Committee on Arts, Film, Travel and Tourism, filed an order for a hearing at the Council’s weekly meeting on Wednesday, October 21.
“Graffiti makes our neighborhoods look neglected,” said Councillor Tobin, who represents West Roxbury and Jamaica Plain. “Boston is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and significant landmarks. I believe toughening the penalties on those who vandalize historic buildings and monuments will further discourage graffiti.”
Councillor Tobin said that graffiti can be difficult to remove especially from brick, brownstone, limestone and marble, building materials that were commonly used to construct many of the city’s landmarks and historic buildings. Cleaning graffiti from these properties can require more testing to find the right technique, he said, adding that the process can make the clean-up more expensive. According to the National Park Service, graffiti that is removed too quickly or with abrasive or harsh chemicals can cause permanent damage.
Boston has “more than 7,000 properties located within seven local Historic Districts or designated as individual Boston Landmarks,” states the city’s website.
“More than 12 million people visit Boston each year,” said Councillor Tobin. “They come here to learn more about the city’s role in our nation’s past. I believe we must do everything we can to protect our history so that it will be here for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.”
The order was referred to the Committee on Economic Development & Planning. A public hearing will be scheduled
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2 Responses to “Councilor Tobin Calls for Stiffer Penalties for Graffiti on Historic Landmarks”
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Great idea as usual, John. What’s the current fine for defacing these landmarks?
Way to go John. I really commend you on your efforts on quality of life issues for your constituency and other residents of Boston. Keep up the good work.