After a spate of copper thefts (at least 22) were reported by police in Oshawa (see below), and in face on the ongoing graffiti problem, the City of Oshawa is reminding affected businesses that funds are available for remediation purposes.
In 2024, the city launched a one-time $100,000 grant fund aimed at helping local businesses deal with the costs of graffiti and vandalism. The program provides financial assistance to eligible commercial and industrial property owners for both repairing existing damage and implementing preventative measures, said a city statement.
It did not specify if individual home owners were covered.
The grant offers two types of rebates: Reparative, which covers the cost of cleanup and repairs, and Preventative, which supports measures to help stop future incidents. Business and property owners may apply to either or both options. Notably, repairs related to the theft or vandalism of copper and wire from air conditioning units also qualify under the program.
Applications for both rebate types are retroactive to January 1, 2024, and are accepted throughout the year on a first-come, first-served basis. According to the city, some downtown Oshawa businesses have already begun receiving funding. Affected businesses are encouraged to visit the Graffiti and Vandalism Remediation webpage or contact business@oshawa.ca for more information.
Ongoing investment in health and safety
In addition to this grant program, the City of Oshawa said it continues to make significant investments to enhance safety and cleanliness. While the Region of Durham oversees social services, housing, public health, and policing, Oshawa allocates over $3 million annually toward health and safety initiatives that directly benefit residents and businesses.
These investments include:
- Additional lighting, security, and graffiti removal support for the downtown business community
- Daily sidewalk, road, and storefront cleanups in the downtown area
- Expanded eligibility for the Community Improvement Plan grant to include security and safety upgrades
- Increased patrols and trail cleaning in parks across the city
- Around-the-clock downtown coverage by Municipal Law Enforcement and Corporate Security Officers
- A new Rapid Response Unit from Oshawa Fire Services, supported by 20 additional firefighters, to improve emergency response times
Through these programs, the city said it aims to create a safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Related Story
You May Also Wish To Read
Vigil for victim cancelled, boy gets first degree murder charge