Graffiti and Vandalism
The Department is aggressive in removing graffiti and addressing other acts of vandalism at public parks and recreation facilities. The Department seeks to document, remove, and restore features that have been affected by graffiti within 24 hours of identification. Prompt graffiti removal is important since it restores public park values, reinforces appropriate public use, provides a sense of safety and security, and promotes a positive image of the community. Acts of vandalism are similarly handled; however, restoration can take longer depending on the extent of damage. Boise Parks & Recreation works with police patrols, neighborhood policing units, and school resource officers to investigate such crimes, find the perpetrators, and obtain restitution. The Department also works with the juvenile court system to allow youth offenders to work off their restitution requirements. This program appears to make a positive impression on most youth since few repeat their offenses. These efforts should continue to be fully funded and implemented to ensure that City parks and recreation facilities are designed and maintained for the benefit of public safety and security and to encourage appropriate park uses.
Risk Management
The Department has worked to become more proactive in addressing employee and public safety needs. The Department has emphasized training employees, reducing accident rates, providing a safe working environment, and prompting action on public safety needs by instituting regular facility inspections and adhering to national safety standards in design, construction, and maintenance of facilities. In addition, the Department requires certain employees to be trained and hold certifications for specific job duties that pose higher levels of risk or liability for public safety. The areas in which training and certifications are required include, but not limited to,