Title
Consider public testimony regarding, and an ordinance amending Chapter 14, Article X, Sections 14-271 and 14-276, Code of Ordinances (2018 Edition), regarding graffiti removal.
(First Reading)*
Body
The proposed amendments to Chapter14, Article X of the Round Rock Code of Ordinances update definitions, responsibilities, and enforcement procedures to align with Texas Local Government Code §250.006.
Terminology Updates
- Replaces references to the "Chief of Police" with "Director."
- Adds a new definition for "Transportation Infrastructure," clarifying assets such as roadways, rail system, and transit facilities.
Property Owner Obligations & Timelines
- Property Owners now have 15 days (instead of 72 hours) after receiving formal notice to remove graffiti visible from public areas, unless the graffiti is on transportation infrastructure and removal would be hazardous.
- Clarifies situation in which failure to abate graffiti constitutes an offense and public nuisance.
City Removal Offer
- Requires the City to first offer free graffiti removal in writing before issuing a notice of violation.
- Outlines how owners may accept or refuse the City's offer.
- Strengthens provisions allowing the City to enter property, remove graffiti, recover costs, and file liens.
- Specifies how liens attach to property and clarifies priority relative to other recorded interests.