Elgin endorses anti-graffiti measures

Elgin's tougher anti-graffiti regulations apparently won't be too much of a burden on the staff at Ziegler's Ace Hardware on Lillian Street.

John Nall, the store's assistant manager, said staff members already card or refuse to sell minors spray paint and other items that could be used illegally.

"We've done that with spray paint for years. We've stopped kids from buying that stuff," Nall said. "I have not seen it in print, but I'd say it's a company policy."

Elgin leaders are expected on Aug. 12 to enact what city officials call a "get tough" approach to combating and deterring graffiti.

Part of the law will ban the sale of spray paint, large permanent markers and drill bits used for etching to anyone under 18. It also will be illegal for minors to possess these items.

Area stores also must ask for identification when selling the items and could be fined $1,000 if they are sold to minors.

The fine for someone caught vandalizing will be $1,000, a sharp increase from the $50 to $500 range now imposed. The fine must be paid in cash or through community restitution.

If the offender is under 18, parents are on the hook for the fine.

Victims also may authorize the city to enter their property and remove the graffiti free of charge.

The measures, described by Elgin's Corporation Counsel William Cogley as a "comprehensive, get-tough policy," were considered after graffiti incidents more than doubled from 2006 to 2008.

Councilman John Prigge said vandals are becoming more organized.

"It's not only on road signs," he said. "It's no longer scribble and run."