Local sign ordinance to undergo review; get your comments ready
SIGNAGE REVIEW
This past year, seemingly more than other years, the use and display of signage of all kinds has directed the attention for the apparent lack of enforcement of the Town’s sign ordinance.
The numerous complaints recently received, not only here in the Code Office but by other Town Officials as well, ignited a renewed concern regarding what seems to be uncontrolled use of signs.
There are many excellent examples of signs that have been granted permits.
However, there is no lack for signs that have been installed, altered or displayed without permits or the approval of the Town Planning Board.
Clearly, it is frustrating to those businesses that play by the rules to watch as others seemingly disregard local laws and standards by just putting up signs without obtaining the proper permits.
It is not fair.
The Town’s signs laws were originally adopted many years ago, in the 1960s.
Since that time they have been revised or modified several times, most recently in 2005.
In each case, public hearings were held.
In each revision process, the Town tried to reach out, solicit the opinion of any interested party.
After this process the Town Board voted accordingly.
Understand that the Code Office is the enforcement part of the Town’s sign laws… not the policy maker.
Although the Code Office certainly has a role, we do not write the ordinance.
The voluminous nature of the complaints last year was overwhelming.
Some businesses simply ignored the entire process either out of choice or ignorance.
The enforcement process is often cumbersome and time consuming.
However, the sign ordinance itself is under the direct control of the Town Board as are all local laws and ordinances.
The system works well when those businesses that have been advised of a potential violation voluntarily correct the issue.
Those who ignore or abuse the sign laws are directly responsible for the new and heightened level of awareness.
Within the Town Board itself, there may be a wide range of opinions, and all of them having merit.
More than likely if a survey was taken within the community, business or resident, a similar wide range of opinions would also be found.
It is clear that businesses need to capture the attention of our summer and winter visitors.
There has to be a balance.
There are those that feel our Town is slowly losing its Adirondack, small town quaintness that has made our area so special.
And that the seemingly abundant amount of signage is contributing to that loss.
One thing is for sure, the Town Board and the Planning Board have acknowledged that the current laws, policies and enforcement tools are not working and need to be fixed.
Accordingly, the current sign laws and enforcement procedures will undergo a renewed review.
It will be the intent to try and identify what the Town’s goals are.
It is the hope that businesses and residents alike will take an interest in this issue and express their feelings either verbally or in writing.
And, as the Code Office is not the rule maker, comments should be directed to our elected officials or a Planning Board member. In an attempt to stir opinions, here are some of the standards to be reviewed for signs on properties.
They may include, but not be limited to: Definition of a sign, Outdoor display, Number of signs, Size of signs, Location, Colors, Materials, Lighting, Window signs [inside or out], Temporary signs, Not-for-profit signs, Governmental signs, Community interest signs, Banners, Streamers, Balloons, Flashing light signs, Neon signs, Vehicle signs, Grandfathered signs, Permit process, Enforcement process, Penalties / fines.
This process will start with the direction of the Town Board.
Where it will lead is yet to be determined.
To do nothing is irresponsible.
To not be involved, and then complain or ignore any change is also irresponsible.
Be part of the solution.
Everybody’s views and opinions have value.
Ultimately, what is agreed to be important for the Town as a whole is what is at issue.
Please keep tuned.
