The controversy centers on what's being called "Graffiti Starter Kits"
Aaron Brothers stores sells books on the "Next Level Graffiti Techniques." And the company is giving away so-called "graffiti kits."
That's sparked a backlash from elected leaders and residents and business people.
"It's basically giving kids a license to go out and say it's okay to spray paint your building," said Nancy Sweeney, from District 3’s “People Organizing a Safe and Secure Environment.”
West Valley resident Nancy Sweeney says the problem is everywhere. She and others are outraged over an on-going promotional campaign by Aaron Brothers Art stores.
The national chain is giving away graffiti kits as part of a five week celebration of street art called "Artrageous."
The kits contain markers, graffiti paper, and other items.
"It's good to help kids, encourage them to do something else. But at the same time some other people who do it in the wrong way will think, oh it's good that we do it anyway," said Tarzana resident Melissa Quintana.
"What we're talking about is vandalism. We're taking about graffiti," said District 3 Councilman Dennis Zine.
Zine worries the line between art and law breaking has been blurred. He said the city spends more than seven-million dollars annually on graffiti removal.
"All this does is send out the wrong message…that we're going to teach you how to tag the community," said Zine. "They're not gonna take this starter kit home and paint their bedroom or paint the front of their house. They're gonna come out and do the community like they do here."
Aaron Brothers executives said the program is designed to encourage artistic expression.
An emailed statement adds, "We in no way...encourage vandalism of public or private property in any form.”
But, Councilman Zine and some residents say "Artrageous" should be stopped before the tools of this crime are handed out for free.
"Join an art class. Sell your stuff. Don't destroy property," said Sweeney.
The next "Artrageous" event is scheduled for September 10th in Hollywood.
The city council will vote on Zine's cease and desist order three days before that.
