Second greeting sign of year vandalized
Topton – Like many things in 2020, a sign welcoming drivers to Graham County on Hwy. 129 has had a difficult year.
The sign – located near the intersection with U.S. 74 in Topton – was vandalized sometime during the Christmas weekend, approximately just one month after being replaced in the aftermath of a motorist driving into it in March. Fluorescent-pink spray paint lettering reading “crooked county” was found covering up the sign’s “Welcome to Graham County” message.
County Manager Becky Garland said she was upset by the vandalism and saddened by the fact that the vandal had chosen to voice his frustrations with the county in a destructive manner.
“I saw it (Monday) as I was coming into the county, and I was very disappointed that someone would choose to express their anger in such a negative way,” Garland said.
She said there were many more positive and effective ways of voicing frustrations with the county, including contacting county staff and elected officials, or speaking during the public comments section at Graham County Board of Commissioners meetings.
“There are positive ways to express concerns, without destroying county property,” Garland said.
Garland also said the county would always listen, even if it was not able to help.
“I don’t think we’ve ever failed to listen to someone’s viewpoint if they have a problem,” Garland said.
She said Project Manager Jason Marino and other county employees were looking at the best option to remove the paint. She said the sign was insured and that there was an older sign in storage that could be used temporarily.
“We’re going to do do everything we can to clean it up,” Garland said.
She said the Graham County Sheriff’s Office would likely investigate the vandalism. However, she emphasized that it would be difficult to find the vandal, citing the recent wet, snowy weather and other factors.
“It’s just kind of a commentary on the times,” Garland said. She also said she did not believe the vandalism reflected on general views of the county or its people, calling it a “minority voice.”
Anyone with information about the vandalism is encouraged to call 479-3352.