Seemingly harmless, Graffiti cost the city of Portland over 2 million dollars in 2007. It costs the tax payer an average of 3 to 5 dollars a year. If I live to 85, having worked since I was 15. That is 300 dollars. EVERY citizen.
The "broken window theory", summed, one broken window if left unrepaired begets more. For example if a house falls into disrepair with broken windows, abandoned buildings are tagged with graffiti, and litter remains on the streets citizens who prefer orderly looking and crime free neighborhoods will abandon the area. Their house, for sale and left vacant will incur graffiti, or litter, and in the long run will be detriment to the neighborhood. A formerly well kept house with the leadership of these neighbors will be lost.
In my neighborhood, one piece of graffiti left on a public wall for one week was accompanied by three other pieces of graffiti within a month. One piece of graffiti begets more.
I encourage you to read more: broken windows theory, it reformed policing policies in the 80s. Instead of changing policing policies, consider it's impact on your yard. Your neighborhood. Clean up.
I had a minister once who would purposefully drop a pencil in a group of people. Waiting, looking to see who picks up the pencil as a sign of leadership. Show some leadership.
This is a site which lists resources around Beaverton. http://www.co.washington.or.us/sheriff/investig/grafhurt.htm
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