The Model Garage at 2920 Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley (510-540-5899) isn't so model when it comes to blight. For some time now, the front of the garage has been covered in graffiti. When the manager was notified about the problem and asked to clean up the graffiti, he demurred, stating that whenever he removes it, the graffiti simply reappears. When gently advised that there are anti-graffiti coatings that can be applied once the graffiti is removed and that additional landscaping can be placed that drapes over the wall, the manager scoffed and said that once he gets some money maybe he will deal with the graffiti. Is the Model Garage on such a shoe-string budget that it cannot provide for adequate maintenance of its facility? Is this really any way to run a business? Not only does leaving the graffiti in place attract more graffiti, but it gives the impression of a neglected storefront. In addition to the graffiti, litter is often found at the front of the store. What happened to the good old days when shopkeepers were proud to maintain their storefronts and would routinely sweep the sidewalk and gutter and keep the area neat and clean? So much for a Model Garage. This matter has been referred to the City of Berkeley for resolution.
North Oakland appears to be under attack by taggers. Telegraph Avenue, Shattuck Avenue, and Martin Luther King Jr. Way have recently seen a significant spike in graffiti. Graffiti is a way for gang bangers and others to mark their territory--not unlike a dog pissing on a tree. If your property is tagged, please make an effort to remove the graffiti as soon as possible. Graffiti attracts graffiti. If you see graffiti on private or public property please use the links on our blog to report it to the City of Oakland. CEDA can address graffiti on private property as a violation of the City Blight Ordinance and Public Works can remove graffiti from public right of ways, telephone poles, utility cabinets and other street furniture. 
