BIDDEFORD — City Councilors are expected to discuss a proposed graffiti ordinance tonight. 

The ordinance, proposed by City Council President Bob Mills, aims to address a persistent graffiti problem in the city. The policy committee approved sending it to council by a 3-2 vote last week. 

Under the ordinance, graffiti would be punishable by a $500 fine and at least 25 hours of community service. It also enforces graffiti removal, giving private property owners 10 days to clean it up after written notice.

Portland approved a similar ordinance in June, which the city’s neighborhood prosecutor Trish McAllister said has proved helpful in the battle with the ongoing graffiti problem.

The council meeting starts at 7 p.m. at City Hall.