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Spray Here, Teens Told

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By LAURA KINSLER

lkinsler@tampatrib.com

Published: December 11, 2008

DADE CITY - Some teenagers use MySpace. Others prefer a low-tech method of self-expression: a can of spray paint.

In hopes of reigning in a growing graffiti problem, Dade City commissioners agreed Tuesday to erect concrete "expression walls" in three city parks. City leaders are hoping the taggers will use the 50-square-foot walls instead of public facilities, such as restrooms and racquetball courts.

The idea of a sanctioned expression wall is based on a similar project in Gainesville, where taggers have been allowed to spray paint the 34th Street wall since the late 1970s.

"I think it's a real innovative solution," Police Chief Ray Velboom said.

Last month, Dade City police arrested a youth whom they believe vandalized more than a dozen locations across town, including Price Park and Pasco Motors.

"He told us he felt the need to express himself," Velboom said. "We asked him if there was a designated wall where he could tag, would he use it. He said he would."
Commissioner Scott Van Gordon, who teaches at Pasco County High School, described the feeling when his school was vandalized recently. "It just eats away at your morale," he said.

In other business, Poe said his staff is researching whether the city can use income from the downtown redevelopment district to pay for repairs at City Hall. The building needs a new roof, windows and a paint job.

The city offers facade improvement grants to businesses in the district.

"I like your thinking," Mayor Scott Black said. "I guess if we can do it for buildings all over town, we can do it for our building."

Reporter Laura Kinsler can be reached at (813) 779-4617.

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