This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
In the coming weeks the West Jordan City Council will consider a package of city code amendments aimed at reducing graffiti. The proposed ordinances include: licensing businesses that sell "graffiti implements" (spray paint, broad-tipped markers, etc.), prohibiting possession of these implements within a certain distance of public facilities and requiring developers to use graffiti-inhibiting designs (increased lighting, non-opaque fencing, clinging vegetation, etc.).
By a 6-1 vote, the city's Planning Commission recommended that the City Council approve the development-related proposals. I am the commissioner who cast the negative vote. I feel the ordinance misplaces the burden on developers to mitigate an already illegal activity.
The proposed ordinances will do little, if anything, to prevent graffiti. Those intent on spreading graffiti won't be deterred simply because it is now more illegal to do so. Breaking two laws is not a greater deterrent than breaking one law.
These new ordinances would create burdensome regulations on business and developers and infringe on the liberties of the law-abiding citizens and visitors.
I urge citizens of West Jordan to make their voices heard when the City Council considers these measures.
Zachary Jacob
West Jordan