Storefront Vandalism Relief Program

DSC06222The City of Hemet is proud to introduce the Storefront Vandalism Relief Program, a dedicated initiative designed to extend a helping hand to our local small businesses and non-profit organizations. With an allocation of $200,000 from Undesignated General Fund Reserves, this program aims to alleviate the financial burdens caused by acts of vandalism, thereby contributing to the resilience and prosperity of our community.


What is the Storefront Vandalism Relief Program?

The primary objective of the Storefront Vandalism Relief Program is to provide financial support to those who have suffered due to acts of vandalism. Eligible expenses covered by the program include repair costs associated with broken windows, damaged doors, locks, graffiti, and other related vandalism-related repair expenses not covered by insurance. Additionally, the program will reimburse insurance deductibles related to repair damages caused by vandalism.


Key Program Details:

  • Eligible businesses and non-profits must have an active City of Hemet Business License or Fee-Free Permit.
  • The program is available to businesses with a physical office or retail storefront operating within the City of Hemet.
  • Applicants must not have any unresolved City violations, delinquent bills, or outstanding liens.
  • Private for-profit businesses are eligible, including sole proprietorships and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations with less than 200 employees and less than $8 million in gross revenue in 2022.
  • Formula retail businesses are ineligible, except franchisees with less than $8 million in gross revenue in 2022.
  • Applicants must not have already received compensation for damages from another entity, such as an insurance carrier.
  • Vandalism damage must have occurred on or after January 1, 2023.
  • Each eligible business or non-profit may submit one application every 12 months until funding is exhausted.
  • Applications for work performed by a Contractor must be completed by a Contractor holding an active California Contractor's License issued by the California State Licensing Board (CSLB).


Financial Assistance

The program will reimburse eligible expenses incurred since January 1, 2023, up to a maximum of $7,500 on a first-come, first-served basis. The City Council has allocated a total budget of $200,000 for the Vandalism Relief Program, with $50,000 appropriated initially in the FY 2023-24 Budget and an additional $150,000 from Undesignated General Fund Reserves.


Community Commitment

The City Council's commitment to this program aligns with its adopted Strategic Plan and Safe and Clean Streets Initiative for Fiscal Year 2023-24. The Storefront Vandalism Relief Program has been carefully developed in collaboration with the City Council's Clean Up/Graffiti Ad Hoc Committee, comprised of Mayor Joe Males and Mayor Pro Tem Malcolm Lilienthal.


This program will not only provide financial relief to affected businesses but also enhance the visual appeal of the community, reduce blight, and contribute to economic growth. This initiative is part of the City's broader goals to ensure a safe, clean, and attractive environment for all residents, businesses, and visitors.


How to Apply

Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, October 16, 2023 at 7:00 am at the City’s Corporate Yard at 3777 Industrial Avenue. Applicants can submit the form digitally by emailing a completed form to pwstaff@hemetca.gov. Applicants can find the application form here.