In the heart of Fillmore, under the warm glow of city hall lights, community leaders gathered to address a pressing issue that has been quietly eroding the vibrancy of their neighborhoods: vandalism. During the recent Fillmore City Council meeting, Georgie Gerardo, a management analyst from the Public Works Department, presented a comprehensive overview of the city's ongoing battle against vandalism, highlighting the various forms it takes and the community's role in combating it.

Gerardo began by shedding light on the alarming rise of graffiti, with over 10 work orders opened and closed in 2024 alone. He urged residents to report any instances of graffiti to both the Fillmore Police Department and Public Works, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance. For private properties, the city is reintroducing a consent to entry form, allowing them to remove graffiti at no cost to homeowners, fostering a collaborative spirit in maintaining the city’s aesthetics.

The presentation also addressed the destruction of city irrigation systems, which have become frequent targets of vandalism. Gerardo shared images of damaged sprinkler heads, urging the community to educate younger generations about respecting public spaces. He noted that rocks have been found littering playgrounds and even the city pool, posing risks to both children and city property. “If you see anyone throwing rocks, say something,” he implored, reinforcing the idea that community accountability is crucial.

New shade structures at 2 Rivers Park, intended to enhance the playground experience, were quickly vandalized, prompting discussions about the need for increased awareness and protection of public amenities. Gerardo also highlighted the issue of illegal dumping, which has surged in various parts of the city. To combat this, the city offers cleanup days and hazardous waste disposal events, encouraging residents to take advantage of these resources.

Council members engaged with Gerardo, expressing concerns about the growing trend of vandalism and the community's responsibility in addressing it. Suggestions were made to increase awareness of cleanup events, with some council members advocating for additional spring and fall cleanup days to better serve residents.

As the meeting concluded, the message was clear: the fight against vandalism in Fillmore is a shared responsibility. With the community's active participation and a commitment to vigilance, the city hopes to preserve its public spaces and foster a sense of pride among its residents. The council's discussions not only illuminated the challenges faced but also ignited a call to action, reminding everyone that a united front is essential in safeguarding the beauty and integrity of Fillmore.