Maitland, NSW – Deputy Mayor Mitchell Griffins took to social media to address a recent wave of vandalism that has targeted the town’s signs. Over the past few days, numerous suburb and city signs, including the brand-new gateway signage at Millers Forest, have fallen victim to spray-paint wielding vandals.
Expressing his displeasure with the lowercase first letter trend in the suburb names, Deputy Mayor Griffins made it clear that he does not condone this illegal behavior that defaces the community’s assets. “While I personally have never agreed with the lowercase first letter of the suburbs, I firmly believe that resorting to vandalism is not the solution,” he stated.
Deputy Mayor confirmed that the suburb signs are scheduled to be replaced gradually, with an uppercase first letter. The decision to replace the signs over time is primarily aimed at reducing the financial burden on ratepayers, as the signs require changing due to damage or aging.
Deputy Mayor Griffins appealed to the community, urging them not to take matters into their own hands and engage in illegal activities. Vandalism only perpetuates a cycle of damage and hampers the beautification efforts of the city. Instead, he encouraged residents to report any incidents or provide information related to the vandalism, as the Maitland Council is offering a reward of up to $6,000 for any information leading to a conviction for the malicious damage of community property.
Residents who wish to report incidents of vandalism or graffiti are encouraged to visit the Maitland Council website at https://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/residents/report-an-issue/report-vandalism-or-graffiti for further information.
