Neighborhood meeting planned for 7/21

7/9/08

Sandra:

Thank you for your response and for your efforts to reduce the number of vandalisms and other malicious offenses in our neighborhood. We agree that the clearing of the pathway will certainly help. The tunnel graffiti removal is also very much appreciated as it does help to restore our neighborhood. You mentioned that the City is working on lighting covers in the tunnel, tunnel lighting, and cleaning of the tunnel floor. Thank you for those efforts as well.

We are very interested in receiving a comprehensive review of the Benicia Police Department's and the City's strategy to stem the tide of increased vandalism and malicious mischief in our neighborhood when you meet with us later this month. What is the strategy?

We would also like to know about the following:

• California State Law prohibits sale of spray paint to minors. Has the City recently reminded Benicia retailers of existing statutes?
• When was the last graffiti implement "sting" operation, as is done for alcohol sales, conducted in Benicia?
• What progress has been made regarding the development of an informational campaign for local students reminding them about the consequences of graffiti offenses?
• Has the Benicia Police Department ever pursued the option of requesting delayed driver's license issuance for graffiti offenders?
• Is there any work in progress to strengthen the Benicia Municipal Code with regard to graffiti offenses and possession of graffiti implements, as other cities and counties have done (e.g. Santa Cruz County)?
• What consideration is being given to improving neighbor-friendly lighting along the pathway?
• What progress is being made to repair the fencing around the tunnel entrances?
• What priority will the City and the Benicia Police Department be placing on vandalism and malicious mischief offenses?
• What is the disposition of the tree removal and/or trimming and sidewalk repair?

You suggested that a neighborhood meeting be held on Monday, July 21st. That should be fine. We understand that the City will be notifying the neighborhood's residents. Your notification list should include all residents on St. Augustine Court., St. Francise Court, Varni Court, and East 3rd Street down to O Street, as a minimum. We will also post an announcement on our website, www.safebenicia.blogspot.com .

We certainly understand that you have many other pressing issues to address. Thank you for your time and effort in helping us to address our issues. They affect us personally, but are common to all Benicians. The progress that is made will certainly benefit all of Benicia's residents and the city as a whole.

Sincerely,

Ross Sagun