Mississauga councillor calls pervasive graffiti a ‘blatant disregard’ for community spaces

Mississauga has a growing graffiti problem and a City councillor has expressed frustration over the issue.

Mississauga Ward 1 Coun. Stephen Dasko is saying, “Enough is enough,” as he vents online over the ongoing graffiti in the community. He calls it a “blatant disregard” for the hard work residents put into keeping their neighbourhoods clean and welcoming.

In a social media post on his personal Facebook page yesterday, Dasko stated, “This is not just an eyesore; it’s a crime.” He emphasized that unauthorized graffiti damages public spaces, private properties and the community spirit, costing Mississauga taxpayers thousands of dollars annually for cleanup.

Reports of unwanted and illegal graffiti have been constant in recent years, with markings appearing “everywhere” on buildings and other structures operated by the City of Mississauga, Region of Peel, and other entities.

Earlier this summer, officials from both the City and Peel Regional Police stressed the importance of promptly removing “tagging” from buildings, bridges, mailboxes, trash bins and a variety of other targets to effectively curb this illegal activity.

Dasko announced in his post that he is collaborating with Peel Regional Police to identify and prosecute those responsible for the vandalism to the fullest extent of the law. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Tips can be sent to his office at [email protected], or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

—Cover photo via Facebook @stephen.dasko with files from Declan Finucane.