City seeks volunteers for graffiti cleanup effort
Volunteer Carolyn Carter cleaning graffiti in Paso Robles.
Volunteer program has been combating graffiti for over 20 years
– A volunteer group with the City of Paso Robles has worked to remove and beautify the city’s streets for over 20 years, with ongoing opportunities for residents to join the program.
“This group of volunteers is amazing, and they perform an invaluable service to this community,” said City of Paso Robles maintenance services superintendent Dwayne Brown. “Both city staff and the residents of Paso Robles are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated group of volunteers that care deeply about the appearance and character of their city.”
Volunteers Diane and Mike Coleman in the downtown city park.
The program started when resident Marvin Cowley started removing graffiti with his own supplies, later working with city staff employees, including Matt Pomerico, for resources. The program quickly expanded when volunteer Carolyn Carter joined the effort; currently, the group consists of seven volunteers dedicated to the original mission.
The volunteers plan their day by reviewing graffitied locations submitted by the police department, local residents, and city staff, while proactively checking areas known for recurring graffiti issues. Their removal methods include graffiti wipes, power washing, and repainting affected surfaces.
The team works four days a week in two-hour shifts, with Brown noting that volunteers often work longer hours. Working in pairs, they dedicate 60 to 70 hours each month to removing graffiti.
Bevelina Hardwick, a volunteer with the graffiti cleanup program.
“Again, we feel very fortunate to have such a dedicated group helping to keep Paso Robles beautiful. Personally, I can’t thank them enough,” Brown said.
Applications can be found on the city’s website and should be returned to the City Annex at 821 Pine Street, Suite A.
