Bronwyn Kieland, a member of the Marysville Police Department, was recently recognized as the city's October Employee of the Month for her service as a School Resource Officer (SRO) and her pivotal role in eradicating graffiti in the community.

Kieland joined the force in 2001, and she has been a key member of the Graffiti Task Force since its inception in 2007.

"As a result of her coordinated efforts with students in the Marysville Middle School system, she has directly contributed to a dramatic reduction of reported incidents of graffiti in the Greater Marysville area," said Cmdr. Robb Lamoureux, who co-chairs the task force with Parks and Recreation Director Jim Ballew.

To date, the city has seen a significant reduction in reported graffiti activity, down nearly 78 percent from 2008 levels, according to police statistics.

Kieland's true expertise is in developing coalitions with Marysville youth, to help them understand the impacts and costs of graffiti and the consequences of errant actions, added Ballew, who nominated her for the monthly employee honor.

"Bronwyn has demonstrated fairness and due process in the fight against graffiti or other community challenges that occur with students, and she makes a genuine and positive impression in the young lives of many," Ballew said.

Ballew also noted that as a result of the officer's dedication and professional approach to a very serious social condition, the citizens of Marysville are enjoying a more attractive urban landscape than in years past when graffiti added to blight around some neighborhoods, businesses and schools.

Cleanup, education and enforcement shared by Kieland and other graffiti-busters on the task force are contributing to a better community image.

Additionally, middle school students have been touched by Kieland's accomplishments as a School Resource Officer, according to Lamoureux. Kieland was recognized for doing a "remarkable job" responding to law enforcement problems that arise on school grounds, while building a good relationship with students, teachers and administrators to promote a safer school environment.

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