Graffiti abatement took center stage at the City of Hanford Council meeting on July 15, 2025, as city officials outlined the current enforcement policies and challenges surrounding graffiti removal. Deputy City Manager Jason Waters presented a detailed report highlighting the municipal code's stance on graffiti, which classifies it as a public nuisance if not addressed within 48 hours.

Waters noted that graffiti in Hanford is predominantly gang-related and often occurs in waves, with certain areas being repeatedly targeted. He emphasized the city's proactive approach, stating that complaints about graffiti rank among the top issues reported by residents. In the past year, the city issued 23 notices of violation for graffiti, with 20 cases resolved without further enforcement action.

The discussion also revealed the limitations of the city’s enforcement capabilities on private properties. While the city can remove graffiti from its own properties, it requires property owners to address graffiti on their own land. If they fail to comply, the city can issue citations, but enforcement is largely dependent on property owner cooperation.

Waters compared Hanford's approach to that of other cities, noting that many have similar policies, including a 48-hour removal window. However, some cities offer cleanup services for a fee, a service not currently available in Hanford. The council is considering whether to adopt similar measures to enhance graffiti removal efforts.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comments, where local business owner Onan Champy expressed concerns about the presentation's selectivity, indicating a desire for a more comprehensive discussion on the issue. The council's ongoing dialogue about graffiti abatement reflects a commitment to maintaining community standards and addressing public safety concerns while balancing the needs of property owners.