Council Gets War-Memorial Protection Bill

Mayor Michael A. Nutter has offered legislation, introduced by City Councilman David Oh, that toughens the penalties, both fines and potential incarceration, on those who vandalize or damage public art and memorials, including those that honor military, police, firefighters and other national defense or public safety subjects.

On Memorial Day, the Mayor announced during ceremonies at memorials to fallen veterans that he would send this legislation to City Council. “I’ve been in regular contact with the veterans who maintain the All Wars Memorial to Colored Soldiers and Sailors, the Korean and Vietnam veterans memorials and others monuments and other veterans groups about how we can better maintain these places that honor heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. Their stories about vandalism and damage at these and other sacred memorials raised serious questions,” said Nutter. “Councilman Oh and I want to send a very strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated. We’re doing that by substantially increasing the penalties for vandalizing or damaging these monuments and public works of art and by prohibiting people from using their skateboards, rollerblades and bikes in a way that damages these memorials.”

The bill prohibits skateboarding, rollerblading and bicycling on monuments and public art and would make this new offense punishable with a maximum fine of $2,000, up to 90 days in jail for adults and confiscation of the skateboard, rollerblades or bike. The ordinance also eliminates the lower penalty level for ethnic intimidation and institutional vandalism, making all violations subject to a maximum $2,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

“Philadelphia is a city with deep historical and cultural roots, and protecting our public spaces, historical landmarks, memorials and outdoor public artwork is essential to every aspect of our city’s image,” said Oh. “I was happy to introduce an ordinance today on behalf of Mayor Nutter so that we can better combat vandalism and public nuisances around these precious assets that are meant to be enjoyed by those who call Philadelphia their home as well as visitors to our great city.”

   Send article as PDF