At no cost to taxpayers, Mineola Mayor Jack M. Martins recently authorized village employees to clean and remove graffiti on the Koeppel Ford building on Jericho Turnpike under an agreement that the dealership owner would pick up the cost.

"Graffiti at Koeppel Ford has become an eyesore for residents and it was an unwelcoming sight for the thousands of people who visit, shop and pass through Mineola daily," Mayor Martins said. "This is one of many steps I am taking to return resident quality of life issues to the priority list. Vandalism will not be tolerated. Graffiti will be removed as quickly as possible and vandals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Mayor Martins also informed Nassau County Police that he is committed to stopping vandalism and has advised them to step up patrols at Koeppel and other problem areas.