Graffiti is a growing problem in Chehalis.
It’s unsightly, it drives down property values and it sends a message that disorder and crime are tolerated in our community.
As a Chehalis City Council member, I share the concern of residents and business owners who are tired of seeing our walls and storefronts defaced. This issue deserves serious action — but our response must be measured, just and focused on those responsible for the crime, not those harmed by it.
That’s why, while I support much of the proposed graffiti ordinance currently before the city council, I cannot support the provision that fines property owners who do not remove graffiti within a set period of time.
Let’s be clear: Property owners who are targeted by vandals are victims. Penalizing them for not removing graffiti quickly enough — often at their own expense — is unjust and counterproductive.
Many of these individuals lack the time, money or physical ability to scrub paint from walls or hire someone to do it.
Threatening them with fines only adds insult to injury.
We should be going after the people doing the damage — not the people suffering from it.
At the second reading of this ordinance on Monday, I will introduce an amendment that strikes this punitive provision. The city should explore ways to support property owners in cleaning up graffiti — not fine them for it. Whether through a public-private partnership, city cleanup assistance or community service by offenders, we can find better solutions than punishing those already victimized.
In contrast, we should increase accountability for those responsible.
That’s why I will also propose amending the ordinance to make graffiti vandalism a gross misdemeanor rather than a simple misdemeanor. This change would allow for tougher penalties, including higher fines and longer potential jail time for repeat or serious offenders. When people deliberately damage property, they should face real consequences — not a slap on the wrist.
Chehalis has worked hard to maintain a welcoming and safe atmosphere.
We should be doing everything we can to protect our city’s appearance and the rights of its residents.
But we must do so in a way that respects the rule of law and the dignity of our community members.
Let’s address the problem at its source. Let’s support property owners, not punish them. And let’s make sure those who choose to vandalize our city face meaningful consequences.
That’s the balance I’ll be fighting for when this ordinance comes up again.
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Kevin Carns is a member of the Chehalis City Council.
