N. Aurora looks to clean up graffiti

The recent appearance of graffiti on the North Aurora Inn led village officials to realize they did not have any laws requiring its prompt removal.

This week the village board discussed a new ordinance that would require victims of graffiti to remove it within 21 days or possibly face a ticket, Village Administrator Sue McLaughlin said.

"We just realized we didn't have an ordinance against graffiti," McLaughlin said.

Without the ordinance, the paint could stay on indefinitely, she said.

Although the ordinance would give the power to issue a ticket, McLaughlin said she did not anticipate writing many for residents who take actions to remove the graffiti.

"We recognize that someone who has graffiti is a victim and we're not out to further victimize the victim. This is just a way to get (the graffiti) off if the person refuses," McLaughlin said.

She said she anticipates the village being flexible in situations where the property owner needs time to raise money or if the weather will not permit quick action.

The ordinance would be similar to other property maintenance laws, including the village's prerogative to compel property owners to mow lawns or fix broken windows.

More discussion is planned and a vote for approval could come at the next board meeting, 7 p.m. Monday at village hall.

Trustee Mark Gaffino said allowing the graffiti to remain for up to a month was too long. He said 15 days was a more reasonable time frame.

"If we give them a month, it's a victory for the (vandal)," Gaffino said.