PUEBLO, Colo. (KOAA) — The Pueblo Police Department said vandals have been targeting more and more businesses. According to police, vandalism has increased 10% this year compared to last. One Pueblo City Councilwoman is now proposing a new way to help small businesses recover.

Several small businesses in Pueblo have had to board up or replace glass, windows and doors because of vandalism and the damage is costing them hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs.

“About $50,000 worth,” said Nick Payne, the new owner of The Great Divide Ski Bike and Hike.

That is how much it cost Payne to buy brand new windows.

“I had to invest in a whole new store front,” said Payne.

Payne said he had aluminum panels installed, instead of windows, after almost all the glass was shot out.

“I did n

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