Friday, September 17, 1999
Political signs could have limits
Cap on size, higher fees proposed
BY RANDY McNUTT
The Cincinnati Enquirer
FAIRFIELD — It's a sign of the times: Too many street-corner political statements stick around for too long.
So at the urging of several City Council members, planning director Tim Bachman recommended this week that Fairfield's zoning code be changed to limit political signs to 4 by 8 feet.
“We're long overdue,” Councilman Donald Hassler said. “It gives you a whole sheet of plywood to use for a sign. If you want to rent a billboard, you can still do that.”
Mr. Bachman also recommended increasing the candidates' sign fee from $25 to $100. The city charges the fee to candidates before elections. If they do not take down their signs later, they forfeit the money.
“They aren't enticed to go back to get their signs for $25,” Mr. Hassler said. “Most of us (on council) don't have a problem with the changes. Hopefully, with the $100, candidates will return to take down their signs. Usually, we don't have trouble with our people. A lot of times the problems come with outside officials.”
Though some council members doubt whether even $100 is a sufficient deterrent, Mr. Bachman feels that quadrupling the fee is enough.
Mr. Bachman said the city tries to update its ordinances about every two years.
“This (sign matter) has been an issue ... that has come to light. The populace has some concerns,” he said.
Now, the city puts no limit on the size of political signs. But officials worry that somebody could erect massive signs.
Mr. Bachman said he will submit the changes to council in October. He expects them to come to a vote late this year.
The zoning changes would go into effect for next year's election, he said.
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