Anti-Graffiti Task Force

The Anti-Graffiti Task Force is a sub-committee of the Beverly Police Department's Citizen's Advisory Council. Its goal and objective is to identify areas in the city of Beverly that are being “tagged” by people who leave an array of artwork and other visual displays on buildings, light posts, electricity boxes, sidewalks and any other place that would be a spot to “tag”. Understanding the nature of graffiti is like understanding stone age art work. Another way to look at is like the old idea of “Kilroy was here”. The end product however, is unsightly and sometimes offensive artwork on the city streets. In some communities, “tagging” is a way to identify turf areas of gangs or groups. There are many different types and styles of graffiti and it is a rapidly developing art form whose value is highly contested, reviled by many authorities while also subject to protection, sometimes within the same jurisdiction. This too, exists in Beverly. We have a legal graffiti wall behind the Incennti Office Park, which runs along the railroad tracks and can be easily seen from McPherson Dr. People who want to display their talent are welcome to do their work there and draw and paint within reason.

Currently, the task force has undertaken several steps to improve the way that graffiti is dealt with in Beverly.

We take random rides around the city to evaluate places where graffiti exists and to develop lists for removal.

We have partnered with the Sheriffs Department for usage of their spray cleaning equipment and labor. This service does not cost the citizens or the City of Beverly any money.

We have drafted a graffiti ordinance for approval by the City Council, which is currently being reviewed by the City Solicitor.

We are investigating a method by which landlords can be notified of graffiti on their buildings and how they can remove it.

We encourage everyone to be involved in our city. This is Beverly, the Garden City. If you observe graffiti in Beverly, email the location, along with a picture if possible, to graffiti@beverlyma.gov.