Hamilton commercial property owners can now apply for grants to combat graffiti

In a unanimous decision today (Sept. 13), the Hamilton City Council took a step to address the issue of graffiti in the downtown area.

They voted to make temporary changes to the existing ‘Commercial District Revitalization Grant Program,’ aimed at providing financial assistance to businesses and commercial properties to make exterior physical improvements.

Under this program, eligible property owners or commercial tenants can apply for a grant of up to $200.00 for each instance of graffiti removal.

The annual limit is set at $1,000.00, covering up to five graffiti removal instances for eligible properties.

“We can help business owners in the heart of the city who’ve experienced vandalism and graffiti keep their businesses clean and thriving,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath in a press release.

Applications for these grants can be submitted, regardless of whether the graffiti removal is done by a contractor or by the property/business owner themselves.

Currently, the grant is available for commercial properties located in Ancaster, Barton Village, Binbrook, Concession St., Downtown Hamilton, Dundas, Locke St., Mount Hope/Airport Gateway, Ottawa St., Stoney Creek, Waterdown, and Westdale.

With more than 1,500 employment locations in the Urban Growth Centre often facing issues related to vandalism and graffiti, the introduction of this grant program is a part of the city’s efforts to rejuvenate the downtown area and enhance safety measures.

“With a focus on enhanced cleaning service levels and safety, this is one of the ways in which we can demonstrate that our local businesses matter and that their success is critical to our local economy and tourism sector,” the Mayor added.

This graffiti grant will be applicable until March 31, 2025.