 Like many cities today, Zion is seeing its share of artistic
self-expression, otherwise known to most of us as graffiti.
This type of vandalism detracts from property values and creates an expensive nuisance for the homeowner. Per city ordinance, the owner is responsible for the cleanup and must comply within seven business days. This is not to punish the owner at all, but quick action is necessary since these ‘markings’ act as a message board or code. Ignoring it or allowing the symbols to remain in place only encourages more abuse.
 This month, in anticipation of the warmer weather and more activity, the city is introducing a new program, Graffiti-busters! We know the majority of the vandalism is being carried out by a relatively small number of ‘artists’, mostly teens. With a few key arrests we can put a serious dent in their effectiveness. We’re giving everyone a chance to help catch the vandals and enjoy a cash reward for your support.
While the police certainly have avenues to pursue this situation, no one knows a neighborhood like the people who live there. We can be so much more effective by working together so if you notice suspicious activity or know of someone who is involved in creating illegal graffiti, call the Graffiti-busters hotline at (847) 746-4000. You will be assigned an anonymous code number similar to the Crime Stoppers program and if your information leads to an arrest you will receive a $500 reward.
 Please note this hotline is designed to accept information on actual vandals that will lead to an arrest, not to report incidents of graffiti. We are looking for information on residential and commercial properties; particularly repeat locations that have become expensive for the owner to maintain.
We want to take a proactive stand and let vandals know we will not accept using our community as a bulletin board. Keep an eye on your alley, talk with your neighbors
and get to know who is ‘hanging around’ on your block. 
You are the first line of defense and we must work together to protect our hometown. If graffiti is meant to send a message, then our response as a community is “No more!” Call Graffiti-busters and enjoy the rewards of being a good neighbor.
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