New signage Bi-Law changes approved

Town Council

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Signage in Saugeen Shores is about to come under some new rules after the passing of a signage motion at Monday's Council meeting.

Several changes have been introduced that pertain to awnings, signage, sandwich boards, size, height and several other restrictions that will be enforced by the Bi-Law Enforcement Officer.

The issue raised considerable controversy.

Councilor Diane Huber raised several questions.  "In the Bi-Law, that sign permits are not transferable.  Does this mean," she asked, "that is there is a change in ownership, the new owner has to re-apply for a permit to change the sign?" 

Jim Bell of the Town replied that no ... that was not his understanding.

Huber then asked about the Special Occasion signs.  According to the new Bi-Law, signage (e.g. sandwich boards) for special occasion events, such as fish fries, concerts, auctions, etc. could only be put out on the day of the event.  "These are not-for-profit events," said Huber, "and they rely on this simply form of advertising.  I suggest that the timeframe be two weeks. "

Councilor Victoria Serda also raised the issue of perpendicular signage.  "Under the current Bi-law," said Bell, "it is not allowed.  When an overall plan by the Chamber of Commerce comes forward and its members agree with a consensus, then we can look at an amendment."

Serda also said that businesses, off the main streets, were worried that the Bi-law was going to affect business.  "We don't want to throw up roadblocks," said Bell, "but it's very difficult to treat one business owner any different that the next.

Huber then brought forward 'non-conforming' signs.  "For instance, there are two signs in Southampton that should not be there," she said.  "The Walker House and Duffy's signs take away from the streetscape.  Duffy's in particular is in front of one of the new heritage lamp-posts.  There are also contractors' signs, such as the ones at the Chantry condos by the new Rexall, that have been there long past the one week they are allowed after construction completion date."

Vice-Deputy Mayor, Doug Gowanlock, weighed in.  "We are here to encourage business and keep it going but I hate clutter," he said, "and perhaps our last Bi-law was not enforced as it should have been.  I have concerns that it is unfair to have a Bi-Law that says we can't direct people to businesses 'off-street'.  A lot of them (side street businesses) require signage, but I am still comfortable with the new rules.

Deputy Mayor, Doug Freiburger, who chaired the meeting in the absence of Mayor Mike Smith, said, "It is not our intention as a Council to limit somebody's livelihood and, perhaps, the livelihood of employees.  Whatever we do, we have to go forward with major considerations as to what the impact will be."

Councilor Taun Frosst, said that he didn't understand what the situation was about.  "Have we been getting a lot of complaints?" he asked.  "Why are we discussing this?"

Bell replied that there had been some complaints received and that the Bi-law had been too liberal in the past.

Huber, once again, brought up the issue of the special occasion signage and asked for an amendment to be made extending the length of time that not-for-profit organizations could put out 'sidewalk' signage advertising events.

Freiburger said that he didn't have a problem with the amendment and that the groups involved contributed much to the community.

In the end, the recommendation for the new signage Bi-law was passed with the inclusion of Huber's 'special occasion' signage amendment.

For full signage Bi-law changes, contact the Town of Saugeen Shores at 519-832-2008.

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Tuesday, April 27, 2010