By Justin Dionne

Changes approved that will result in bigger billboards and more electronic displays

Jan 14, 2019 | 9:30 PM

Changes have been made to the way the city is handling billboards and electronic displays.

Modifications to the Sign Bylaw passed third reading during Monday’s council meeting which will result in changes such as the increased size of billboards, the number of electronic displays in the city, and the approval of third-party advertising on free-standing signs.

Mayor Bill Given says the changes were made with the interests of both residents and businesses in mind.

“I think the package that council chose to pass tonight does strike a reasonable balance between the concerns the general population might have with respect to the visual impact of signs, and the needs and desires of the sign industry and businesses who might wish to advertise,” says Given. “In essence, council was satisfied that administration has the appropriate tools at their disposal to manage and enforce any of our regulations on electronic message displays, and I think that’s why we saw the amendments passed tonight.”

One member of the public named Susan Schneider voiced her concerns about the changes, saying having more electronic signs throughout the city will cause drivers to be distracted, and contribute to light pollution.

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The changes include the maximum size for billboards increasing by 44 percent and allowing electronic displays to take up more space on a free-standing sign.

The City is working with owners of grandfathered electronic signs deemed distracting to comply with the bylaw.

Other highlights from the meeting were the approval of the Borrowing Bylaw which is expected to increase reserve funds and contribute to the tax reduction, and a total of $17,995 was also awarded in 2018 neighborhood enhancement grants.

The grants were awarded to:

• The Country Club Neighborhood Association is receiving $5,000 to enhance the outdoor space at Aspen Grove Elementary
• The Westpointe Neighborhood Association in partnership with the South West 40 Playground Society is receiving $5,000 which will go toward the Isabel Campbell Park playground
• The Cobblestone and Riverstone Neighborhood Associations are receiving $3,330 for waste bins along the east side walking trails
• The Highland Park Neighborhood Association is receiving $2,400 which is going toward six Lending Libraries
• The Swanavon Neighborhood Association will be receiving $1,575 for welcome banners throughout the neighborhood
• The Hillside Neighborhood Association in partnership with Hillside Elementary is receiving $690 to buy physical literacy items