On the plants vs grafitti issue, I like the idea in theory, but I wonder about some of the implementation. First of all, I think it should be required that not only the plants be non-deciduous, but they should be California natives, requiring minimal water.
I also have some concerns with structures on the alley or public way, as this describes many of the properties within our historic districts. In the early 20th century, property owners built their accessory structures like carriage houses directly on the lot line. These are clad in historic building materials that are very expensive to repair when damaged by climbing vines. So as long as there is some reasonable exemption for those circumstances, I love the idea that we are finally engaging property owners in the fight against grafitti.
Thanks for the post!