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Locals save taxpayer money by removing graffiti

Saturday, October 22, 2016
Abigail Hantke | WEAU

ALTOONA, Wis. (WEAU)- Cleaning up and saving taxpayers money. A businessman partners with one local community to help get rid of graffiti quickly and for a cheaper price tag.

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Altoona Police say graffiti is an increasing problem around the city, especially in new development areas like the River Prairie District.

"Graffiti, criminal damage of property, vandalism, whatever you want to call it, it's becoming more of a problem," said Altoona Police and Fire Chief Jesse James. "I think with the new structures that are coming up, it's inviting those that choose to produce their artwork to be on display more and more, and we're seeing it more and more."

The markings left on the bridge at the new boat launch site in the River Prairie Development in Altoona are a sore sight for at least one person living nearby.

"I find it very disrespectful," said Peter Bergee, who lives in Altoona. "We were concerned about the looks and we want people to come here, tour or visit, have a nice outdoor facility to kayak or canoe, nature walk have fun in the area."

That's why Bergee wanted to get involved and donate his time to help get rid of the graffiti on the bridge.

On a job that typically costs upwards of $1,500 dollars, the Altoona Police Department partnered with Bergee, also the president of Wisconsin Dustless Blasting, is doing it for only $200, which is the cost of materials.

"It's our pride monument that's in place right now, so we want to definitely take care of it," James added. "Whatever we can do in creating partnerships with the community, business owners, to keep Altoona looking great, that's our goal."

Bergee says there are about 10, 8x10 areas of graffiti they're taking care of; each section taking nearly 10-15 minutes to complete using a recycled glass product.

Bergee adds the removal is an environmentally friendly process.

To prevent people from creating more graffiti, the Altoona Police Department has placed camera surveillance in the area.

Other local businesses stepped in for Saturday's removal process as well. Sam's Paint & Body supplied the materials used and A-1 Rental supplied the lift.

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